A winter storm warning will be in effect Wednesday morning through Thursday night for heavy snow in the northern and central Oregon Cascades.

In the southern Oregon Cascades, a winter storm watch goes into effect Tuesday night and lasts through Thursday afternoon.

Cascade passes throughout the state could see snow accumulations of up to 20 inches, with wind gusts up to 40 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

The heaviest snow accumulations are expected in Marion, Linn and Lane counties, where NWS forecasters said snowfall rates could occasionally exceed 1 inch per hour between 4 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m. Thursday.

❄️ A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the Oregon Cascades from April 1-2. Expect 10–18" of snow above 3500 ft with a 50-75% chance for hourly snowfall rates over 1 in/hr at times Wed. evening through Thu. morning. Travel conditions will be hazardous over the Cascade passes. pic.twitter.com/FTCgI7jU9J

— NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) March 31, 2026

A combination of low visibility and accumulating snow could make travel conditions difficult. Officials said people should consider delaying all travel over the Oregon Cascade passes.

“If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution,” the weather service warned. “Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.”

Outside of the Cascades and foothills, much of Oregon will see steady rain Wednesday and Thursday.

Forecasts show drier and warmer conditions returning Friday and lasting through the weekend.

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News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2026/03/31/oregon-cascades-winter-storm-warning-heavy-snow/