Snow shuts parts of interstates in southern, eastern Oregon

ASHLAND, Ore. — Authorities have closed southbound Interstate 5 at Ashland in southern Oregon because of blizzard conditions, heavy snow and disabled vehicles.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reports the Oregon Department of Transportation said late Wednesday afternoon that there was no estimated time for the freeway’s southbound lanes to reopen.

“California-bound traffic should delay travel and seek overnight services in communities on the I-5 corridor in Oregon,” the agency said.

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for Ashland and surrounding areas until 8 a.m. Thursday for snow at elevations above 2,000 feet (610 meters) with winds gusting up to 45 mph (72 kph) in exposed areas.

Transportation officials also closed part of Interstate 84 eastbound in eastern Oregon Wednesday evening near La Grande because of snow and vehicle crashes. A winter weather advisory was also in effect in that area into southwest Idaho through early Thursday for snow and slippery road conditions.