Winter Storm Inbound For The Dalles, White Salmon, Goldendale
By Cole Goodwin
The Dalles, Ore., January 10, 2024 –The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch and wind advisory for the Eastern Columbia River Gorge, Simcoe Highlands, lower Columbia Basin, and the lower slopes of the Eastern Washington Cascades Crest. The storm watch remains in effect from the morning of Thursday, Jan. 11 until Jan. 14.
Impacted cities include The Dalles, Goldendale, Bickleton, Appleton, Maupin, Dufur, and White Salmon.
Forecasts show heavy snow, with total snow accumulations of 12 to 24 inches. And wind gusts of 25 to 60 mph.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has advised the public that travel could be very difficult to impossible during this time. Patchy-blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. Strong winds could cause tree damage. The cold wind chills as low as 20 below zero could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken.
NOAA FORECAST
For more forecast information visit forecast.weather.gov.
The City of The Dalles has issued the following press release about the incoming winter storm:
A foot or more of snow is forecast for The Dalles later this week and across the weekend with possible single-digit temperatures. The City of The Dalles Public Works Department is making sure equipment is ready to respond to this winter storm event. But City resources will be stretched to capacity once the snows begin. The job of snow removal is too big for City crews to tackle alone.
You can prepare to assist City crews with winter storms by making sure that the following equipment in good repair and supplies are on hand:
Snow shovel and/or snow blower (with gas)
Cooking spray for the snow shovel, so snow won’t stick to the blade
A stiff broom to sweep snow off of porches and decks
Waterproof gloves with a good grip; waterproof boots with good traction
Pet-friendly, child-safe, salt-free deicer that won’t harm cement surfaces
While City crews are working hard, citizens will be asked to help in priority order:
First priority: sand and/or shovel sidewalks adjacent to their homes or businesses. Safe passage should be cleared within the first two hours of daylight each day.
Shoveled snow must be piled on private property, not in the street.
Second priority: help a neighbor clear the sidewalk in front of their home. Snow that has accumulated on cars that are parked on city streets should be removed so that City plow operators will see the parked cars.
You can call a contractor or contact a volunteer organization before the snow flies if you need help with snow removal.
For more snow response information and a flyer about safe sidewalks and snow shoveling safety go to thedalles.org/winterweatherresponse or call Public Works office at (541) 296-5401.
For more winter preadeness information and resources visit: https://columbiacommunityconnection.com/the-dalles/winter-storm-preparedness-stay-safe-and-warm-with-these-tips
