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Winter weather is on its way. When Troutdale’s famous wind combines with rain, sleet and snow, drivers in East Multnomah County can face significant driving challenges. During inclement weather conditions it's usually a better plan to stay home rather than drive.
» RELATED: Troutdale Snow & Ice Plan
If you do venture out, plan long trips carefully and pay attention to up-to-date weather forecasts and road conditions. You can always find the latest conditions by visiting tripcheck.com from the Oregon Department of Transportation or by calling 511. Here are some winter driving tips that may help you better prepare:
- Turn your vehicle lights on if they do not turn on automatically, day and night, as our daylight times have shortened and you could be driving in inclement weather.
- Practice safe nighttime driving: dim your headlights when appropriate, keep your vehicle windshield clean, provide more stopping/reaction distance, and routinely inspect your vehicle.
- Utilize winter tires if possible. Slow down, as icy slick roads are sometimes not seen in time. Troutdale weather can become extreme and it’s important to be ready!
- Try to keep your gas tank at least half-full. If your vehicle becomes disabled, it’s usually best to stay in your vehicle as walking during inclement weather can be very dangerous. Remember that dangerous driving conditions can also cause increased response time for emergency services.
- Have your cellular phone available along with a charger in the car. If you are disabled in a roadway causing a hazard, or if you need a Deputy to assist you, call the non-emergency number at 503- 823-3333. If you feel you need an immediate critical response, please call 911.
- Keep an emergency car kit that is properly equipped for winter travel. At a minimum, this kit should include: a first aid kit, flash light, snow and ice scraper, water, snacks, blanket or sleeping bag, booster cables, tow chain or rope, emergency flares or reflectors, and a cell phone charger.
Troutdale Public Works, the Oregon Department of Transportation, and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office implements a traffic safety plan when I-84 (East of Troutdale) is closed due to inclement weather. This plan involves alternate route planning for the truck industry while ensuring Frontage Road/I-84 services are maintained. You may also want to familiarize yourself with the snow and ice removal plans within Troutdale and our neighboring communities:
- Troutdale Snow & Ice Priority Routes
- Multnomah County Snow & Ice Plan
- Fairview Snow Plow Priority
- Gresham Snow and Ice Plow Routes
- Portland Plow Activity & Routes
The weather can also bring about some other livability issues. Inclement weather can create challenges for our community’s most vulnerable citizens. No matter the weather event, there are people who may need your assistance. Please prepare a plan to check on those who may be in need.
Prepare for potential power outages, extended periods of below freezing temperatures and anticipate problems or needs that can arise. Conditions that prevent people from obtaining critical services or supplies can create life-threatening situations. Multnomah County Sheriff Deputies will continue to assist those that are houseless and lack the shelter and protection they need from the inclement conditions.
A version of this article by Troutdale Police Chief Steve Beven appeared in the November/December 2021 edition of The Troutdale Champion.