High Wind — Blue Mountains, Oregon

2000-12-15 · Blue Mountains, Oregon

Wider weather episode

High winds throughout the day closed roads and caused considerable damage to businesses and residences throughout the Grande Ronde Valley and the Blue Mountains. In the Blue Mountains, power was lost at Spout Springs for 3 days. Highway 204, which crosses the Blue Mountains between Elgin and Westin, was closed for almost two days due to downed trees and an additional high wind threat. The Oregon DOT estimated that over 140 trees were felled either across or next to Highway 204. Interstate 84 through Ladd Canyon was closed for three hours during the afternoon. Upon reopening, high winds and blowing snow snarled traffic. In La Grande, wind gusts as high as 58 mph damaged the roof and a wall at Globe Furniture and the roof of a nearby sub shop. Several streets were closed at times due to fallen power lines. Elsewhere in the Grande Ronde Valley, several power poles were downed between Imbler and Elgin.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5165952. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.