Portland Surprises with Unexpected Snowstorm, Causing Traffic Chaos

Portland Surprises with Unexpected Snowstorm, Causing Traffic ChaosPortland Surprises with Unexpected Snowstorm, Causing Traffic Chaos Portland, Oregon, known for its mild winters, was caught off guard by an unexpected snowstorm that blanketed the city in a thick layer of white on Tuesday, December 22nd. The storm, which started as rain and turned into snowfall, quickly paralyzed the city’s transportation system, causing widespread traffic chaos. As the snow continued to fall throughout the day, visibility was reduced and roads became treacherous. Drivers struggled to navigate slippery surfaces, leading to numerous accidents and road closures. Major highways, including Interstate 5 and Highway 26, were at a standstill as cars and trucks slid off the roads. The Portland Police Bureau reported hundreds of calls for service related to crashes and slide-offs. Semis were particularly vulnerable, with several jackknifing and blocking entire lanes of traffic. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to clear the roads, but the sheer volume of accidents made it difficult to keep up. Public transportation was also severely affected by the snowstorm. TriMet, the region’s largest public transit agency, suspended all bus service due to safety concerns. MAX Light Rail trains continued to operate with delays, but some stations were closed due to slippery platforms. The unexpected snowfall left many Portlanders stranded and frustrated. Some motorists spent hours stuck on the roads, while others were forced to abandon their vehicles and walk home. Social media was filled with images and videos of the snowy chaos, with residents expressing both awe and frustration. Mayor Ted Wheeler declared a state of emergency for the city to help coordinate cleanup efforts and provide support to those in need. The Oregon Department of Transportation and the National Guard were brought in to assist with snow removal and traffic control. As the storm subsided, crews worked throughout the night to clear the roads and restore transportation services. By Wednesday morning, many roads had been plowed and reopened, but some residential streets remained impassible. Public transportation resumed, but with limited service. The unexpected snowstorm served as a reminder of the sometimes unpredictable nature of Portland’s weather. While snowstorms are rare in the city, they can have a significant impact when they do occur. Residents were urged to be prepared for future winter weather events and to take precautions to stay safe during such conditions.