Winter weather has arrived, and Columbia County is urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for the snow, ice, and other severe conditions the season brings. With regional agencies actively responding to ensure public safety, residents are encouraged to continue taking steps to minimize risks and disruptions.

Preparing for Winter: Key Agencies Collaborate

On December 2, Columbia County Emergency Management hosted a winter preparedness conference at the Columbia County Public Works main office in St. Helens. The event brought together executive leaders, emergency responders, and staff from Columbia County, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), cities, law enforcement, fire departments, the Community Action Team, and public utilities.

“This conference was a valuable opportunity to bring our community agencies together to strengthen our preparedness for winter weather,” said Columbia County Emergency Manager Corey Padrón. “By coordinating in advance, we can ensure a faster and more effective response when severe weather hits.”

Participants discussed strategies and resources for responding to winter storms, ensuring coordinated efforts to keep roads open and residents safe during severe weather events.

How Columbia County Prepares for Snow and Ice

Columbia County Public Works Director Mike Russell detailed the county’s winter weather response plans. “I’m deeply grateful to our road maintenance 

crews and regional partners for their tireless efforts to keep roads safe and open year-round, especially during the challenges of winter weather,” said Mike Russell, Columbia County Public Works Director. “Winter storms demand round-the-clock dedication from our teams, and we urge the public to plan ahead. By minimizing travel and giving our crews the space they need, you can help ensure we clear routes safely and efficiently.”

"Our priority during winter storms is to keep key routes open and safe," Russell explained "We start with major roads like Scappoose-Vernonia, Timber, and Apiary Roads, then move to important collector roads such as Beaver Falls, Alston-Mayger, Fernhill, Tide Creek, Canaan-Meissner, Pittsburg, and Cater Roads. Once those are cleared, we focus on side roads. To help us work more effectively, we urge everyone to prepare for snow and ice in advance. By planning ahead, you can keep your family safe and allow our crews the space they need to do their jobs efficiently."

Winter Safety Tips for Residents

Columbia County and ODOT urge residents to take the following precautions:

• Stay informed: Sign up for community alerts at https://columbiacounty.info/alerts
• Avoid travel in severe weather whenever possible.
• Drive cautiously: If you see a snowplow, slow down, increase your following distance, and only pass when it’s safe. A little extra caution helps everyone get home safely.
• Be patient: Crews work long hours to keep major routes open during winter storms. Many of our workers live in the areas they service and take great pride in their work.
• Give space: Allow road maintenance crews plenty of room to work safely.

“Living in Columbia County, it is important that we try to be as self-sufficient and self-reliant as possible. Taking personal steps to be informed and ready should be everyone’s priority”, said Padrón.

Act Now: Prepare for Winter Weather Today

Winter weather can strike without warning. Columbia County urges all residents to prepare now by signing up for alerts and creating a safety plan. Visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before for more tips and resources.