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Weather Watch
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| H&N photos by Todd E. Swenson |
The latest updates on weather, road conditions and closures
Posted 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- The following Klamath County schools will be closed Wednesday for snow removal: Henley High School, Ferguson, Stearns, Fairhaven, Altamont, Brixner and all Chiloquin schools. In the city district, Ponderosa Junior High, Mazama High and Conger Elementary schools will be closed Wednesday.
Posted 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Ponderosa Junior High, Mazama High and Conger Elementary schools will be closed Wednesday for continued snow removal. All other Klamath Falls City Schools will be open.
Posted 3:40 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- The Sky Lakes Outpatient Physical Rehabilitation Center at Washburn and Crosby has been closed and evacuated as a precaution as snow is removed from the roof. The center is in the middle of the building. Other offices remain open. The building is expected to open on schedule on Wednesday.
Posted 1:50 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- The Mazama High School girls' junior varsity and varsity basketball games scheduled tonight have been canceled because snow removal is still ongoing at the high school. The games at Klamath Union will be played as scheduled. -- The Department of Human Services building will remain closed Wednesday.
Posted 11:42 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- The DHS building in downtown Klamath Falls is closed for the remainder of the day. Posted at 11:28 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Conger Elementary School in the Klamath Falls City School District will close today at noon to allow for the removal of snow from the roof. School buses will run at noon for Conger Elementary only. All parents are being notified.
Posted at 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Klamath County School District Superintendent Greg Thede said roofs at Henley High School have not collapsed. His statement was in response to concerned parents who called the Herald and News saying students used cell phones to call and tell them they were evacuated to the gym and hallway roofs were caving in. Students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m.
Posted 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Basin Transit Service buses are in operation today. Bus routes are currently 10 minutes late, according to Transit officials.
Moyina Heights, Daggett Street, Almond Street, Moore Park, Springcrest Way, Third Street, Sky Lakes Medical Center, O.I.T. and KCC will not receive regular buses today due to slippery conditions.
To find the nearest operating bus stop, contact 883-2877
Posted 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- All Henley Schools will close at 11:30 a.m. today due to snow load issues on roofs.
Posted 9:32 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 --City planning, parks, public works, engineering, and human resources departments will re-open today at noon after closure yesterday due to unsafe roof snow load. All other departments will re-open tomorrow at 8 a.m.
Posted 8:00 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 --Ferguson, Shasta, Peterson, Stearns, Keno and Fairhaven schools are closed today for snow removal. All other county schools are open.
Mazama High School and Ponderosa Junior High School will also be closed today. All other city schools are open.
Road closures in effect:
Highway 62 between mileposts 44-66, 24 miles north of Shady Cove
Highway 62, between mileposts 66 and 84, 25 miles south of Fort Klamath. Road through Crater Lake National Park is closed.
Highway 230's intersection with Highway 62, between mileposts 0-23.
Highway 138 between mileposts 79-100, seven miles west of North Umpqua Highway intersection.
Highway 138 at US97 intersection.
Highway 140 near the Nevada border at Adel.
Chains still required at:
Highway 140 between mileposts 21 and 41 toward Medford (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 62 between mileposts 45 and 65 (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 138 between mileposts 83 and 100 (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 230 between mileposts 0 and 24 (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 66 between mileposts 9 and 44 toward Ashland (traction tires allowed in place of chains on vehicles under 10,000 GVW
Data courtesy of the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Posted 8:15 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Ponderosa Junior High School will be closed Tuesday so workers can remove snow from its roof. School closures for Tuesday so far include: Shasta, Ferguson, Stearns, Keno, Fairhaven and Peterson elementaries and Mazama High School.
Posted 8:10 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Klamath County fire officials are encouraging residents to watch for signs of excess snow load on their homes. Bowing ceilings, flickering lights, doors that are difficult to open and cracked windows are all warnings that should taken seriously, according to Scott Rice, fire marshal with Klamath County Fire District No. 1. "All those are good signs that there's something going on," Rice said. "You need to pay attention to that."
Posted 6:45 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Ferguson, Stearns, Shasta, Fairhaven, Keno and Peterson elementaries will be closed Tuesday so workers can remove rooftop snow, according to Klamath County School District Superintendent Greg Thede.
Posted 4 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Mazama High School will be closed Tuesday to allow the Klamath Falls City School District to remove snow and check all of the structural beams in the building. All athletic events planned for Tuesday at the school will occur as scheduled. Pelican Elementary School, which had an early release today, will have a regular scheduled day on Tuesday.
Posted 2:47 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4 --As a result of unsafe snow load, Klamath Falls city planning, parks, public works, engineering, finance, human resources, and utility building have been closed, according to city officials.
Planning, parks, public works, engineering, and human resources will re-open tomorrow at noon. All other departments will re-open Feb. 6 at 8 a.m.
Girls' Basketball games at Henley and Mazama high schools scheduled for tonight are postponed. Check out Tuesday's sports section for a complete list of postponed and rescheduled games.
Posted 2:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4 --Highway 62 between mileposts 63 and 91, 28 miles south of Fort Klamath, has been reopened, according to ODOT officials.
Posted 12:37 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4 -- Crews will be removing snow from the Safeway on Pine Street. The grocery store was evacuated this morning because of a threat of the roof collapsing. The roof remains intact.
Posted 12:05 p.m. -- Mazama High School will be dismissed at 12:15 p.m. to allow the district to inspect the roof of the school and remove all snow from it. The building is safe, said Klamath Falls City Schools Superintendent Cecelia Amuchastegui.
“It’s just a preventative measure,” she said.
Engineers felt it would be safer for students and staff to be out of the building during the snow removal.
Posted 10:30 a.m. -- Pelican Elementary School is closing at noon today so workers can remove snow on the roof. The building is safe, but engineers feel it is best to have all students and staff out the building prior to removal, according to a press release from Klamath Falls City Schools. School buses will run at noon for Pelican students only.
Posted 9:45 a.m. -- Preliminary reports indicated the Safeway store downtown was being evacuated because of concern about roof collapse due to heavy snow.
Posted 8:54 a.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Klamath County Fire District 1 crews responded to a 7 a.m. call this morning that a center portion of downtown's Egyptian Plaza building had collapsed.
Gas, water and power crews were also dispatched to the scene to secure the safety of utility lines.
Main Street and a portion of Broad Street are currently blocked off until fire and utility crews have secured the scene.
Comment(s)
Posted 7:13 a.m., Monday, Feb. 4 Klamath County and City of Klamath Falls school districts are open and will run classes as regularly scheduled.
Road closures still in effect:
Highway 62, between mileposts 44 and 66, 24 miles north of Shady Cove.
Highway 230 intersection of Highway 62 between mileposts 0 and 23.
Highway 62 between mileposts 63 and 91, 28 miles south of Fort Klamath.
Highway 138, seven miles west of North Umpqua Highway intersection.
Highway 138 at milepost 100.
Highway 140 between mileposts 28 and 65 near Adel at Nevada border.
Highway 31 between mileposts 99 and 105 has an estimated 20-minute delay due to weather impact.
Chains still required at:
Highway 140 between 51 and 57 mileposts and mileposts 21 and 41 (for towing vehicles and vehicles over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 66 between mileposts 9 and 44
Highway 62 between mileposts 45 and 55 (for towing vehicles and vehicles over 10,000 GVW only)
Posted 6:50 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- Road closures: -- Highway 138, 7 miles west of intersection with North Umpqua Highway will remain closed through Tuesday. It also is closed at the intersection with Highway 97. Downed trees and snow have made the highway impassable. -- Highway 70 at the intersection with Klamath Falls-Lakeview Highway 140 closed due to severe winter conditions. -- Highway 140 west near Adel is closed from MP 28 to 65 due to snowdrifts. -- Highway 62 is closed from 24 miles north of Shady Cove to 28 miles south of Fort Klamath and will remain closed through Tuesday. Downed trees and snow have made the highway impassable. -- Highway 230, Crater Lake National Park closed at intersection with Highway 62 through Tuesday.
Posted 2:25 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- Heavy snow caused the roof of a building at 651 Market St., to collapse early Sunday. American Excavation was on the scene at noon, waiting for the phone company to take down the line on Elm Street alongside the building. Pacific Power Company had already cut electricity to the building. There was concern because of a hazardous wall in danger of collapse, which could take out two poles and the line.
The building was currently being leased with an option to buy by Dan and Ann Cavanaugh, owners of Smith-Bates Printing. It was the former location of Graphic Press and was being used for storage. It still had a few pieces of equipment in it, according to Greg Brosterhous, who was keeping the Cavanaughs advised and checking the snow load on their former location at 130 S. Fifth St. Smith-Bates Printing business recently moved to 537 Northern Heights Blvd., the former Cell Tech headquarters.
Posted 2:15 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- How much snow is in your backyard? We're looking for snow measurements from around the region. If you have a measurement, please post it in the comments section below, along with a description of where it was taken. Pick an accurate spot (try to avoid the hill where you pointed your snowblower, for instance). If we get enough responses, we'll print them in tomorrow's paper.
Posted 10:20 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- The National Weather Service is predicting a break in the weather today and Monday. About an inch of snow is expected Tuesday and again on Thursday. Only one of about 50 Klamath Basin observers had reported to the NWS by 10 a.m. today. A Keno observer estimated 8 to 12 inches of snow fell last night.
Posted 9:45 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- Sheriff's deputies were checking on residents snowed in without supplies in the Bly Mountain area, according to Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger. "We're trying to come up with a contingency plan on whether we need to put together food boxes for people," Evinger said. "Crucial travel only thing advisable." If people are in urgent need of supplies, they should call 911 dispatch and deputies will respond, he said, adding "Everyone's poised and ready to help.
Posted 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 3 -- A sheriff's deputy and search and rescue volunteer rescued an elderly couple from a pickup truck stuck in a snow drift on Yonna Valley Road late Saturday. The rescuers used snowmobiles to located the truck, which was buried up to its cab. Motorists stuck on Crystal Springs Road Saturday night also made it out safely, Sheriff Tim Evinger said.
Posted 10:28 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Sheriff's deputies on snowmobiles were traveling to Yonna Valley Road where an elderly couple was reportedly stranded in a vehicle, Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger reported. Snowmobiles were being used because of drifting snow.Evinger said Yonna Valley Road, like many in the area, wasn't officially closed, but was physically impassable due to drifting snow.
Posted 10:20 p.m. -- Motorists stranded on Crystal Springs Road were being rescued by private citizens using tractors, said Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger. A deputy was on the scene. Crystal Springs Road is between Highway 140 and Reeder Road.
Posted 10:15 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Highways 140, 97 and 39 in and out of Klamath Falls are open, according to Randy Bednar, assistant district manager for the Oregon Department of Transportation in Klamath Falls. "This is a big storm and we're doing the best we can to at least keep a hole punched in the middle," he said. "Stay home. It's going to take us awhile to dig out of this even once the storm gets done."
Posted 9:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger said deputies were trying to reach at least three stranded motorists on Crystal Springs Road. Snow conditions were hampering efforts because the snowmobiles sink in the powder, he said.
Posted 9:05 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- OSP is turning people around on Highway 39 from Klamath Falls to Merrill at the Southside Expressway because of road conditions, according to unconfirmed reports.
Posted 8:05 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Steen Sports Park will be closed Sunday due to inclement weather.
Posted 7:45 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Interstate 5 southbound is closed at Exit 14 in Ashland. Traffic had been held up as ODOT crews worked to clear the Siskiyou Summit pass, and after the pass was ready to reopen at 6:30 p.m., snow conditions in California led to a full closure.
Northbound traffic is being held in Redding, but motorists in Yreka and north of the closure can get over the pass.
Posted 5:45 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Oregon Tech's basketball games are proceeding as scheduled, but fans are advised to stay home due to poor road conditions on campus. The Klamath Basin Senior Center has canceled its Saturday night bingo sessions.
Posted 5:15 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Due to blowing snow and whiteout conditions, ODOT is asking motorists to avoid using Highway 140 eastbound from Klamath Falls. ODOT crews are engaged in clearing operations, but extreme snowfall and high winds are causing dangerous conditions on the highway.
Posted 4:45 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- More road closures have been reported north of Klamath Falls. Highway 138E from Diamond Lake Resort east to Highway 97 is closed until further notice due to snow, as is all of Highway 230.
Posted 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- A reception for artist Walt Evans scheduled for this evening at the Ross Ragland has been canceled. It will be rescheduled at a later date. Tonight's production of "Carmina Burana" at the Ross Ragland will go on as planned. It starts at 7:30 p.m.
Posted 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- A 7-mile stretch of Highway 70 between Dairy and Bonanza, which was reopened Friday, has again been closed due to severe weather conditions. Highway 62 from Fort Klamath to Crater Lake National Park, an area of 28 miles, also is closed.
Posted 1:50 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- As has been the case for most of the week, several Klamath Basin sporting events have been postponed, including Southern Cascade League basketball doubleheaders between Lost River and Bonanza, and Lakeview and St. Mary's. The Klamath Falls Ice Hawks' hockey game against Crater also has been postponed. Oregon Tech, however, will square off with The College of Idaho in men's and women's basketball as scheduled.
Posted Noon, Saturday, Feb. 2 -- The rumor Friday was true: You couldn't buy a snow shovel at Klamath Falls-area stores. More than 15 store managers in various department, grocery and hardware stores said they were out. Other flat shovels and spades were flying off the shelves, too.
Posted 9:40 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 2 -- A winter storm warning remains in effect from 10 a.m. Saturday morning to 10 a.m. Sunday for Klamath and Lake counties. Snow will become heavy at times with the strongest storm conditions between 4 p.m. and midnight. Three to 8 inches of snow today will be followed by another 3 to 8 inches tonight. Gusty westerly winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts of 30 to 40 mph will develop by afternoon and create periodic white-out conditions and areas of blowing and drifting snow through the night. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.
Posted 8:20 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1 -- Recent weather conditions caused the Klamath County 911 Communications Center to be flooded with calls, said Jeanine Dilley, center director.
They have dispatched services for many minor accidents throughout the county.
“When it’s an emergency, they need to call,” she said. She, as well as several other emergency officials in Klamath and Lake counties, are urging people to stay off of the roads during snow storms.
Posted 3:25 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- Highway 70 toward Bonanza has reopened, according to Oregon Department of Transportation officials.
Reopening highways 62 and 140 are ODOT current priorities in the southwestern region.
Posted 2:34 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- The semi blocking Biehn's right turn lane onto Crater Lake Avenue has been cleared.
Posted 12:34 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- A hot air balloon event Saturday at the Running Y Ranch Resort has been canceled because of hazardous road conditions caused by the weather, according to a press release from the resort. The event will be rescheduled in March. The Microbrew Festival is still on.
Posted 11:23 a.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- The Henley boys basketball game at Phoenix High School has been canceled. The Henley girls game against Phoenix is also canceled.
The OIT - Eastern Oregon game is still on schedule for tonight at 7:30 at OIT.
Posted 11:15 a.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- A stuck semi is blocking the right turn lane where Biehn intersects with Crater Lake Avenue. Police are directing traffic around the obstacle.
Posted 7:32 a.m. Friday, Feb. 1 --Chains are currently required on towing vehicles or vehicles over 10,000 GVW between mileposts 25 and 35 on Highway 140 heading toward Lakeview, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation. The same chain requirements are also in effect between mileposts 51 and 57 and 21 and 41 heading toward Medford.
The chain restriction between mileposts 9 and 44 on Highway 66 toward Ashland is still in effect. ODOT is still recommending limited vehicle use and for motorists to carry chains in their vehicles.
The US 97 rest area at milepost 282 near Klamath Falls has been closed because of the weather.
Posted 2:45 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 31 -- City plow services are being focused on arterial and collector streets first, with hospitals and emergency service roads also receiving priority. Residential areas will be attended to as resources permit.
Posted 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 31 -- Fire and emergency service agencies throughout the region are urging people to keep access to their homes and property cleared so fire, ambulance and law enforcement vehicles can get to them. The Klamath Falls Veterans Affairs outpatient Clinic is closed today because of weather and road conditions.
Posted 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Ponderosa Junior High, Mazama High and Conger Elementary schools will be closed Wednesday for continued snow removal. All other Klamath Falls City Schools will be open.
Posted 3:40 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- The Sky Lakes Outpatient Physical Rehabilitation Center at Washburn and Crosby has been closed and evacuated as a precaution as snow is removed from the roof. The center is in the middle of the building. Other offices remain open. The building is expected to open on schedule on Wednesday.
Posted 1:50 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- The Mazama High School girls' junior varsity and varsity basketball games scheduled tonight have been canceled because snow removal is still ongoing at the high school. The games at Klamath Union will be played as scheduled. -- The Department of Human Services building will remain closed Wednesday.
Posted 11:42 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- The DHS building in downtown Klamath Falls is closed for the remainder of the day. Posted at 11:28 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Conger Elementary School in the Klamath Falls City School District will close today at noon to allow for the removal of snow from the roof. School buses will run at noon for Conger Elementary only. All parents are being notified.
Posted at 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Klamath County School District Superintendent Greg Thede said roofs at Henley High School have not collapsed. His statement was in response to concerned parents who called the Herald and News saying students used cell phones to call and tell them they were evacuated to the gym and hallway roofs were caving in. Students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m.
Posted 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- Basin Transit Service buses are in operation today. Bus routes are currently 10 minutes late, according to Transit officials.
Moyina Heights, Daggett Street, Almond Street, Moore Park, Springcrest Way, Third Street, Sky Lakes Medical Center, O.I.T. and KCC will not receive regular buses today due to slippery conditions.
To find the nearest operating bus stop, contact 883-2877
Posted 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 -- All Henley Schools will close at 11:30 a.m. today due to snow load issues on roofs.
Posted 9:32 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 --City planning, parks, public works, engineering, and human resources departments will re-open today at noon after closure yesterday due to unsafe roof snow load. All other departments will re-open tomorrow at 8 a.m.
Posted 8:00 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5 --Ferguson, Shasta, Peterson, Stearns, Keno and Fairhaven schools are closed today for snow removal. All other county schools are open.
Mazama High School and Ponderosa Junior High School will also be closed today. All other city schools are open.
Road closures in effect:
Highway 62 between mileposts 44-66, 24 miles north of Shady Cove
Highway 62, between mileposts 66 and 84, 25 miles south of Fort Klamath. Road through Crater Lake National Park is closed.
Highway 230's intersection with Highway 62, between mileposts 0-23.
Highway 138 between mileposts 79-100, seven miles west of North Umpqua Highway intersection.
Highway 138 at US97 intersection.
Highway 140 near the Nevada border at Adel.
Chains still required at:
Highway 140 between mileposts 21 and 41 toward Medford (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 62 between mileposts 45 and 65 (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 138 between mileposts 83 and 100 (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 230 between mileposts 0 and 24 (towing or over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 66 between mileposts 9 and 44 toward Ashland (traction tires allowed in place of chains on vehicles under 10,000 GVW
Data courtesy of the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Posted 8:15 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Ponderosa Junior High School will be closed Tuesday so workers can remove snow from its roof. School closures for Tuesday so far include: Shasta, Ferguson, Stearns, Keno, Fairhaven and Peterson elementaries and Mazama High School.
Posted 8:10 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Klamath County fire officials are encouraging residents to watch for signs of excess snow load on their homes. Bowing ceilings, flickering lights, doors that are difficult to open and cracked windows are all warnings that should taken seriously, according to Scott Rice, fire marshal with Klamath County Fire District No. 1. "All those are good signs that there's something going on," Rice said. "You need to pay attention to that."
Posted 6:45 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Ferguson, Stearns, Shasta, Fairhaven, Keno and Peterson elementaries will be closed Tuesday so workers can remove rooftop snow, according to Klamath County School District Superintendent Greg Thede.
Posted 4 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Mazama High School will be closed Tuesday to allow the Klamath Falls City School District to remove snow and check all of the structural beams in the building. All athletic events planned for Tuesday at the school will occur as scheduled. Pelican Elementary School, which had an early release today, will have a regular scheduled day on Tuesday.
Posted 2:47 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4 --As a result of unsafe snow load, Klamath Falls city planning, parks, public works, engineering, finance, human resources, and utility building have been closed, according to city officials.
Planning, parks, public works, engineering, and human resources will re-open tomorrow at noon. All other departments will re-open Feb. 6 at 8 a.m.
Girls' Basketball games at Henley and Mazama high schools scheduled for tonight are postponed. Check out Tuesday's sports section for a complete list of postponed and rescheduled games.
Posted 2:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4 --Highway 62 between mileposts 63 and 91, 28 miles south of Fort Klamath, has been reopened, according to ODOT officials.
Posted 12:37 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4 -- Crews will be removing snow from the Safeway on Pine Street. The grocery store was evacuated this morning because of a threat of the roof collapsing. The roof remains intact.
Posted 12:05 p.m. -- Mazama High School will be dismissed at 12:15 p.m. to allow the district to inspect the roof of the school and remove all snow from it. The building is safe, said Klamath Falls City Schools Superintendent Cecelia Amuchastegui.
“It’s just a preventative measure,” she said.
Engineers felt it would be safer for students and staff to be out of the building during the snow removal.
Posted 10:30 a.m. -- Pelican Elementary School is closing at noon today so workers can remove snow on the roof. The building is safe, but engineers feel it is best to have all students and staff out the building prior to removal, according to a press release from Klamath Falls City Schools. School buses will run at noon for Pelican students only.
Posted 9:45 a.m. -- Preliminary reports indicated the Safeway store downtown was being evacuated because of concern about roof collapse due to heavy snow.
Posted 8:54 a.m., Monday, Feb. 4 -- Klamath County Fire District 1 crews responded to a 7 a.m. call this morning that a center portion of downtown's Egyptian Plaza building had collapsed.
Gas, water and power crews were also dispatched to the scene to secure the safety of utility lines.
Main Street and a portion of Broad Street are currently blocked off until fire and utility crews have secured the scene.
Comment(s)
Posted 7:13 a.m., Monday, Feb. 4 Klamath County and City of Klamath Falls school districts are open and will run classes as regularly scheduled.
Road closures still in effect:
Highway 62, between mileposts 44 and 66, 24 miles north of Shady Cove.
Highway 230 intersection of Highway 62 between mileposts 0 and 23.
Highway 62 between mileposts 63 and 91, 28 miles south of Fort Klamath.
Highway 138, seven miles west of North Umpqua Highway intersection.
Highway 138 at milepost 100.
Highway 140 between mileposts 28 and 65 near Adel at Nevada border.
Highway 31 between mileposts 99 and 105 has an estimated 20-minute delay due to weather impact.
Chains still required at:
Highway 140 between 51 and 57 mileposts and mileposts 21 and 41 (for towing vehicles and vehicles over 10,000 GVW only)
Highway 66 between mileposts 9 and 44
Highway 62 between mileposts 45 and 55 (for towing vehicles and vehicles over 10,000 GVW only)
Posted 6:50 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- Road closures: -- Highway 138, 7 miles west of intersection with North Umpqua Highway will remain closed through Tuesday. It also is closed at the intersection with Highway 97. Downed trees and snow have made the highway impassable. -- Highway 70 at the intersection with Klamath Falls-Lakeview Highway 140 closed due to severe winter conditions. -- Highway 140 west near Adel is closed from MP 28 to 65 due to snowdrifts. -- Highway 62 is closed from 24 miles north of Shady Cove to 28 miles south of Fort Klamath and will remain closed through Tuesday. Downed trees and snow have made the highway impassable. -- Highway 230, Crater Lake National Park closed at intersection with Highway 62 through Tuesday.
Posted 2:25 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- Heavy snow caused the roof of a building at 651 Market St., to collapse early Sunday. American Excavation was on the scene at noon, waiting for the phone company to take down the line on Elm Street alongside the building. Pacific Power Company had already cut electricity to the building. There was concern because of a hazardous wall in danger of collapse, which could take out two poles and the line.
The building was currently being leased with an option to buy by Dan and Ann Cavanaugh, owners of Smith-Bates Printing. It was the former location of Graphic Press and was being used for storage. It still had a few pieces of equipment in it, according to Greg Brosterhous, who was keeping the Cavanaughs advised and checking the snow load on their former location at 130 S. Fifth St. Smith-Bates Printing business recently moved to 537 Northern Heights Blvd., the former Cell Tech headquarters.
Posted 2:15 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- How much snow is in your backyard? We're looking for snow measurements from around the region. If you have a measurement, please post it in the comments section below, along with a description of where it was taken. Pick an accurate spot (try to avoid the hill where you pointed your snowblower, for instance). If we get enough responses, we'll print them in tomorrow's paper.
Posted 10:20 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- The National Weather Service is predicting a break in the weather today and Monday. About an inch of snow is expected Tuesday and again on Thursday. Only one of about 50 Klamath Basin observers had reported to the NWS by 10 a.m. today. A Keno observer estimated 8 to 12 inches of snow fell last night.
Posted 9:45 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 3 -- Sheriff's deputies were checking on residents snowed in without supplies in the Bly Mountain area, according to Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger. "We're trying to come up with a contingency plan on whether we need to put together food boxes for people," Evinger said. "Crucial travel only thing advisable." If people are in urgent need of supplies, they should call 911 dispatch and deputies will respond, he said, adding "Everyone's poised and ready to help.
Posted 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 3 -- A sheriff's deputy and search and rescue volunteer rescued an elderly couple from a pickup truck stuck in a snow drift on Yonna Valley Road late Saturday. The rescuers used snowmobiles to located the truck, which was buried up to its cab. Motorists stuck on Crystal Springs Road Saturday night also made it out safely, Sheriff Tim Evinger said.
Posted 10:28 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Sheriff's deputies on snowmobiles were traveling to Yonna Valley Road where an elderly couple was reportedly stranded in a vehicle, Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger reported. Snowmobiles were being used because of drifting snow.Evinger said Yonna Valley Road, like many in the area, wasn't officially closed, but was physically impassable due to drifting snow.
Posted 10:20 p.m. -- Motorists stranded on Crystal Springs Road were being rescued by private citizens using tractors, said Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger. A deputy was on the scene. Crystal Springs Road is between Highway 140 and Reeder Road.
Posted 10:15 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Highways 140, 97 and 39 in and out of Klamath Falls are open, according to Randy Bednar, assistant district manager for the Oregon Department of Transportation in Klamath Falls. "This is a big storm and we're doing the best we can to at least keep a hole punched in the middle," he said. "Stay home. It's going to take us awhile to dig out of this even once the storm gets done."
Posted 9:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Klamath County Sheriff Tim Evinger said deputies were trying to reach at least three stranded motorists on Crystal Springs Road. Snow conditions were hampering efforts because the snowmobiles sink in the powder, he said.
Posted 9:05 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- OSP is turning people around on Highway 39 from Klamath Falls to Merrill at the Southside Expressway because of road conditions, according to unconfirmed reports.
Posted 8:05 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Steen Sports Park will be closed Sunday due to inclement weather.
Posted 7:45 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Interstate 5 southbound is closed at Exit 14 in Ashland. Traffic had been held up as ODOT crews worked to clear the Siskiyou Summit pass, and after the pass was ready to reopen at 6:30 p.m., snow conditions in California led to a full closure.
Northbound traffic is being held in Redding, but motorists in Yreka and north of the closure can get over the pass.
Posted 5:45 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Oregon Tech's basketball games are proceeding as scheduled, but fans are advised to stay home due to poor road conditions on campus. The Klamath Basin Senior Center has canceled its Saturday night bingo sessions.
Posted 5:15 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- Due to blowing snow and whiteout conditions, ODOT is asking motorists to avoid using Highway 140 eastbound from Klamath Falls. ODOT crews are engaged in clearing operations, but extreme snowfall and high winds are causing dangerous conditions on the highway.
Posted 4:45 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- More road closures have been reported north of Klamath Falls. Highway 138E from Diamond Lake Resort east to Highway 97 is closed until further notice due to snow, as is all of Highway 230.
Posted 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- A reception for artist Walt Evans scheduled for this evening at the Ross Ragland has been canceled. It will be rescheduled at a later date. Tonight's production of "Carmina Burana" at the Ross Ragland will go on as planned. It starts at 7:30 p.m.
Posted 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- A 7-mile stretch of Highway 70 between Dairy and Bonanza, which was reopened Friday, has again been closed due to severe weather conditions. Highway 62 from Fort Klamath to Crater Lake National Park, an area of 28 miles, also is closed.
Posted 1:50 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 2 -- As has been the case for most of the week, several Klamath Basin sporting events have been postponed, including Southern Cascade League basketball doubleheaders between Lost River and Bonanza, and Lakeview and St. Mary's. The Klamath Falls Ice Hawks' hockey game against Crater also has been postponed. Oregon Tech, however, will square off with The College of Idaho in men's and women's basketball as scheduled.
Posted Noon, Saturday, Feb. 2 -- The rumor Friday was true: You couldn't buy a snow shovel at Klamath Falls-area stores. More than 15 store managers in various department, grocery and hardware stores said they were out. Other flat shovels and spades were flying off the shelves, too.
Posted 9:40 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 2 -- A winter storm warning remains in effect from 10 a.m. Saturday morning to 10 a.m. Sunday for Klamath and Lake counties. Snow will become heavy at times with the strongest storm conditions between 4 p.m. and midnight. Three to 8 inches of snow today will be followed by another 3 to 8 inches tonight. Gusty westerly winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts of 30 to 40 mph will develop by afternoon and create periodic white-out conditions and areas of blowing and drifting snow through the night. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.
Posted 8:20 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1 -- Recent weather conditions caused the Klamath County 911 Communications Center to be flooded with calls, said Jeanine Dilley, center director.
They have dispatched services for many minor accidents throughout the county.
“When it’s an emergency, they need to call,” she said. She, as well as several other emergency officials in Klamath and Lake counties, are urging people to stay off of the roads during snow storms.
Posted 3:25 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- Highway 70 toward Bonanza has reopened, according to Oregon Department of Transportation officials.
Reopening highways 62 and 140 are ODOT current priorities in the southwestern region.
Posted 2:34 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- The semi blocking Biehn's right turn lane onto Crater Lake Avenue has been cleared.
Posted 12:34 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- A hot air balloon event Saturday at the Running Y Ranch Resort has been canceled because of hazardous road conditions caused by the weather, according to a press release from the resort. The event will be rescheduled in March. The Microbrew Festival is still on.
Posted 11:23 a.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- The Henley boys basketball game at Phoenix High School has been canceled. The Henley girls game against Phoenix is also canceled.
The OIT - Eastern Oregon game is still on schedule for tonight at 7:30 at OIT.
Posted 11:15 a.m., Friday, Feb. 1 -- A stuck semi is blocking the right turn lane where Biehn intersects with Crater Lake Avenue. Police are directing traffic around the obstacle.
Posted 7:32 a.m. Friday, Feb. 1 --Chains are currently required on towing vehicles or vehicles over 10,000 GVW between mileposts 25 and 35 on Highway 140 heading toward Lakeview, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation. The same chain requirements are also in effect between mileposts 51 and 57 and 21 and 41 heading toward Medford.
The chain restriction between mileposts 9 and 44 on Highway 66 toward Ashland is still in effect. ODOT is still recommending limited vehicle use and for motorists to carry chains in their vehicles.
The US 97 rest area at milepost 282 near Klamath Falls has been closed because of the weather.
Posted 2:45 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 31 -- City plow services are being focused on arterial and collector streets first, with hospitals and emergency service roads also receiving priority. Residential areas will be attended to as resources permit.
Posted 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 31 -- Fire and emergency service agencies throughout the region are urging people to keep access to their homes and property cleared so fire, ambulance and law enforcement vehicles can get to them. The Klamath Falls Veterans Affairs outpatient Clinic is closed today because of weather and road conditions.
Reader Comments
The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the view of HeraldAndNews.com. Comment Disclaimer: The editors of heraldandnews.com reserve the right to refuse publication of any comment posted for consideration. We may refuse for any reason, including use of profanity, disparaging comments, libelous comments, etc. Any reader who notices a comment they believe is particularly offensive, should notify us at webmaster@heraldandnews.com.
THATSFUNNY!!! wrote on Feb 8, 2008 7:43 AM:
" Angle suggests that we citizens should pitch in and do our share of the work..WHAT ARE YOU SMOKING?
I shovel my side walks and the side walks on both sides of my house because the people are old and need help so the get help.
Do I then need to the turn my worn out shovel to the city streets? I PAY TAXES and that money PAYS for those things to get DONE.
Look, I can be fined for not keeping my lawn mowed, weeds pulled, sidewalks shoveled. How is it justifiable for me, a tax payer to be treated this way and then have the city and county road departments totally drop the ball on snow removal..causing dozens of accidents..road clousers..clousers of city offices....and who is going to fine them? My tax dollars are being abused by these clowns and until people call foul and do something about it..they will continue to abuse my and your money and it will fund some other clowns wages to inspect your lawn to see if it is over 8" tall. For anyone who does not see these things as REAL PROBLEMS then I wonder how the wether is in cotton candy land were you must live. "
I shovel my side walks and the side walks on both sides of my house because the people are old and need help so the get help.
Do I then need to the turn my worn out shovel to the city streets? I PAY TAXES and that money PAYS for those things to get DONE.
Look, I can be fined for not keeping my lawn mowed, weeds pulled, sidewalks shoveled. How is it justifiable for me, a tax payer to be treated this way and then have the city and county road departments totally drop the ball on snow removal..causing dozens of accidents..road clousers..clousers of city offices....and who is going to fine them? My tax dollars are being abused by these clowns and until people call foul and do something about it..they will continue to abuse my and your money and it will fund some other clowns wages to inspect your lawn to see if it is over 8" tall. For anyone who does not see these things as REAL PROBLEMS then I wonder how the wether is in cotton candy land were you must live. "
Angel wrote on Feb 7, 2008 8:58 PM:
" I have to agree with Idaho... It would be nice if we did it ourselves, then we would get what we want when we want it. But Idaho, Havent you noticed some people are lazy and dont care about nobody but themselves. And for the plows drivivng around with their plows up yeah they have rules when it comes to their jobs just like everyone else. You know there is schools and children that play on the streets, they have certain times to do roads.... Why dont you go get a snow plow and start plowing if it is a big problem. You idaho you dont suck, people are just mad cause you know how to work together as a community. "
Angel wrote on Feb 7, 2008 8:51 PM:
" Like I said before this is Klamath Falls. The weather forcasts say one thing but mother earth dose different. I have lived here my whole life. I know how the weather is here. Just like last year the weather forcast said we were sopposed to get alot of snow... Did we? No. I agree that the city should have been perpared but you can only do so much. They have tried their best considering there isnt many people who help. That is why I said citizens of Klamath Falls can help by doing their share of the work. I go out and shovely my driveway and my neibors exspecailly those who are older and cant do it themselves. I have had some complaints about the city too but I do have the respect to know that they are doing their best. With little help and little equitment you cant do much. What people should do is complain about the city counsel not putting tax payers money to more equitment to things we may need for times like these. But tax payers shouldnt complain about something that they could be helping to do themselves. It is called helping others. I just feel some people are selfish and lazy and excpect others to their petty jobs, when everyone can come together as a society and help one another. So with that goodbye... "
Pam wrote on Feb 7, 2008 6:45 PM:
" I'm sure the snow removal people are working overtime and I appreciate all the long hours y'all have put in. In saying that I have a request, can someone PLEASE come to the Pacific Terrace area, esp. Erie St...you can not drive a car down either of these roads without scrapping the bottom of your car along the snow/ice. (if you do make it down these roads!
Thank you!!!! "
Thank you!!!! "
idaho too wrote on Feb 7, 2008 6:26 PM:
" Hey JC,
Glad your paying attention to what idaho people say, and do. Wish the rest of the people in K-Falls would do that. The only thing you were wrong about in your last comment was that it sucks in IDAHO. To me, it sounds like you are a Government man. Remember what we do to G-men in this state? I just have one question for you. What do you think the local (practical thinking) people from your community think about you. "
Glad your paying attention to what idaho people say, and do. Wish the rest of the people in K-Falls would do that. The only thing you were wrong about in your last comment was that it sucks in IDAHO. To me, it sounds like you are a Government man. Remember what we do to G-men in this state? I just have one question for you. What do you think the local (practical thinking) people from your community think about you. "
JC wrote on Feb 7, 2008 4:53 PM:
" Hey, read all about it, Idaho. They don't rely on government over there in Idaho, the coolest place on earth with the most robust economy, the greatest living wages, the best of everything ... yeah, Idaho is sure more cool than states like ... well like anywhere else on earth. Idaho is just better. Read about it anywhere and you'll always see reference to Idaho as extremely cool. Wow. We are are so honored that someone from Idaho even pays us any attention. Idaho. Idaho. Oh. I'm just beside myself here in silly old Oregon. Why don't we all move to Idaho? ... oh, yeah, because it sucks in Idaho. "
SM wrote on Feb 7, 2008 3:17 PM:
" Thank you for this wonderful way of keeping track of what is happening. I have family in Kfalls and used to work in the Balsiger building. The photos are wonderful. I'm sorry everyone is snowed in, I have family there still. Wishing you all well. "
Idaho wrote on Feb 7, 2008 2:40 PM:
" I went to school @ OIT during the 95/96 winter (That year there was twice as much snow as this season). During that time I had a 2-wheel drive car and was able to get around just fine. However, I was born and raised in IDAHO and over here (In Conservative Land) we learn to fend for ourselves rather than rely on government help like you liberals over in Oregon. Catch a clue. Until you start doing things for yourself, you have no-one else to blame. "
RUKIDDING wrote on Feb 7, 2008 8:20 AM:
" Some of you people are really funny. As long as people accept the poor performance from the city and county road departments..nothing will change..You have a right (by paying taxes) to clear safe roads. If you accept less than that, then that is what you will get.
This goes for all of our county and city offices...If you dont care what you get for your tax dollars..they sure wont.
It's time to hold some folk accountable. If you dont..dont expect change. "
This goes for all of our county and city offices...If you dont care what you get for your tax dollars..they sure wont.
It's time to hold some folk accountable. If you dont..dont expect change. "
jaa wrote on Feb 7, 2008 7:50 AM:
" has anyone else noticed the excessive amounts of city trucks/plows cruising our city streets with thier plows UP ? If I were equiped with any type snow removal tools on my vehicle I would drop the blades where needed. permits to operate would not even concern me
It should go without saying that any city owned vehicle capable of plowing shall
not operate without engaging the plow.
I mean ... were buying the fuel
and city services .
does anyone know exactly who may be
contacted ...? "
It should go without saying that any city owned vehicle capable of plowing shall
not operate without engaging the plow.
I mean ... were buying the fuel
and city services .
does anyone know exactly who may be
contacted ...? "
pril wrote on Feb 7, 2008 5:16 AM:
" Angel, the Wednesday before we got all the snow the weather service had issued a Storm Watch, which then turned into a Storm Warning, with predictions of 8 to 10 inches of snow. Are you trying to tell us that the city had no idea we were going to get so much snow? It was on the radio, it was on TV... does it need to be beamed directly into the heads of people in charge of planning for these things? "
Angel wrote on Feb 6, 2008 8:33 PM:
" I agree with Blanche... If people like Taxpayer has other ideas how to handle this situation better then maybe you should say something or maybe do something about it. Everyone knows how the weather is here in Klamath, we cant predict the weather, it dose what it wants, where it wants and when it wants.... They had no idea this weather was going to hit us the way it did and all we can do is try and get the roads safe and secure and that is what the city workers and the local police is trying to do. And also it would help to if some citizens would drive safely to prevent these accendent from happening. I dont know how many times I have been pushed off the road or cut off cause of inconsidrete people. Just cause your bigger or better in driving then some of us dosent mean you own the road or that you wont cause an accedent. So it would help if people drove safely and give the city and the local police a brake some of them have been working over time and 24 hours a day to make sure we are safe. So everyone needs to chill and pull some weight around here and help out. Just cause your not getting payed cash for it dosent mean your not getting payed in some other way. " Help thy neihbores." Lets be real here, the best payment you can get for doing this is just the fact you are helping... Thnk about it!! "
Angel wrote on Feb 6, 2008 5:31 PM:
" Yes I understand that we are tax payers but for those tax payers that are lazy and inconsedarte and dont want to help by shovling their driveways or move their vehicles so the snow plow can do there job. And for those who know there is a disabled or old people that cant do their driveways or move their cars maybe some people should get off there butts and help them. See this is what is wrong with the world today, no one dose for others they do for themselves. And for the people who do shovel their driveways and do help those who cant do it themselves GOOD JOB!! We need more people like you. We are tax payers...yes but we are human and some of us do have a heart and we should have consideration for those who cant do nothen and give thanks to the people that do help us in time of need. That gose for the city and some citizens. I did complain earlier about the snow plows not clearing out the roads good enough but that is because I almost seen my husband and nephew and great nephew get in a bad wreck. They should try and get the snow to the side of the road instead of the middle of the road. Angel signing out!! "
Angel wrote on Feb 6, 2008 5:15 PM:
" Today on the bypass between Shasta and Washburn is snow piled up in the middle of the road... My husband was driving in it with our little car and he hit that snow that the trackter plow had left in the middle of the road and almost wreacked, and my one month old nephew was in the car. The snow plows and the trackters need to move that snow out of the road, I have seen to many people almost wreck cause of it.. Including my husband, nephew and baby nephew. Luckly my husband is a good driver in this kind of weather. So please for our safty have the snow plows move the snow from the middle of the roads. Before someone gets seoursily hurt!! This is the citys responsiablity to keep us safe and they are not doing a very good job!! "
outraged wrote on Feb 6, 2008 9:25 AM:
" I think the point that tax payer is trying to make is that it is NOT the fault of the drivers and that we need not feel so sorry for them because they are being PAID to do thier job and paid very well.
The issue as they say, is with the lack of planning to deal with the amount of snow.
The H&N has reported that this has happened before (snow amounts) so for those who plan, this should have been a real consideration and a plan developed to effectively deal with it.
Our roads are a rutted disasted and the road departments are to blame.
I think it is understandable for a tax payer to be totally disgusted with the situation and demand accoutability.
Effective snow removal cannot happen with vehicles parked on the sides of most of our city streets. How do you solve the problem? ban parking on those streets period.
As it is now with vehicles parked on the sides of the streets even when there is no snow..it would be difficult if not impossable for a fire or emergency vehicle to pass through.
Who would be to blame if the fire truck could not reach the fire? Could you just write it off the "weather"? NO.
Tax payers will never get their monies worth as long as they accept the shotty performance of those in charge. "
The issue as they say, is with the lack of planning to deal with the amount of snow.
The H&N has reported that this has happened before (snow amounts) so for those who plan, this should have been a real consideration and a plan developed to effectively deal with it.
Our roads are a rutted disasted and the road departments are to blame.
I think it is understandable for a tax payer to be totally disgusted with the situation and demand accoutability.
Effective snow removal cannot happen with vehicles parked on the sides of most of our city streets. How do you solve the problem? ban parking on those streets period.
As it is now with vehicles parked on the sides of the streets even when there is no snow..it would be difficult if not impossable for a fire or emergency vehicle to pass through.
Who would be to blame if the fire truck could not reach the fire? Could you just write it off the "weather"? NO.
Tax payers will never get their monies worth as long as they accept the shotty performance of those in charge. "
Blanche wrote on Feb 6, 2008 8:39 AM:
" Apparently Taxpayer has a problem paying overtime wages (aka:windfall of cash). Isn't OT wage a state law?
Perhaps TP would be so kind as to share their Master Plan as to how this could have been handled better.
To me, waiting until it snows, calling in all available personnel and equipment and then putting both to the work seems like a pretty good plan.
Hint to Taxpayer: More ideas, less crying.
Thoughtfully yours,
Blanche
"
Perhaps TP would be so kind as to share their Master Plan as to how this could have been handled better.
To me, waiting until it snows, calling in all available personnel and equipment and then putting both to the work seems like a pretty good plan.
Hint to Taxpayer: More ideas, less crying.
Thoughtfully yours,
Blanche
"
tax payer wrote on Feb 5, 2008 3:34 PM:
" City worker, as it has been written several times..The folk plowing the roads are not the issue. Most people are thankful for them..I hope the workers are thankful for all of the OT they are geetting, When the weather turns the other way I am sure they will have time off to enjoy the windfall of cash they are racking in.
The PROBLEM is the lack of planning or maybe it should be called an "emergancy reaction plan for server snow fall"
I have seen lots of people working their tails off and being paid a kings ransom for theeir efforts.
The folks directing the effort should be drawn and quartered. "
The PROBLEM is the lack of planning or maybe it should be called an "emergancy reaction plan for server snow fall"
I have seen lots of people working their tails off and being paid a kings ransom for theeir efforts.
The folks directing the effort should be drawn and quartered. "
city worker wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:04 PM:
" Pam
being demanding doenst help these days. "I want my street plowed NOW. I wasn't nice about either...."
remember..what goes around will come around.
we are all in your same situation. we all pay taxes. being mad doesnt help either.
they will come and clear your street sooner or later.
thanks.
-your city worker. aka the guy whos plowing all of your roads.
ps. thank you for all of the people who understand out there. "
being demanding doenst help these days. "I want my street plowed NOW. I wasn't nice about either...."
remember..what goes around will come around.
we are all in your same situation. we all pay taxes. being mad doesnt help either.
they will come and clear your street sooner or later.
thanks.
-your city worker. aka the guy whos plowing all of your roads.
ps. thank you for all of the people who understand out there. "
Pam wrote on Feb 5, 2008 11:43 AM:
" O.k. were all sick of the snow. Myself, I live on North Hills Drive. There is very little traffic on the top of the street. Day after day passed and no one plowed. I called the City three times, my husband also called. We pay over $3300.00 a year in property taxes and I ask why don't you plow this street? I want my street plowed NOW. I wasn't nice about either. But now, they not only plow ... Sunday the entire neighborhood was out with snow blowers and showels
and when the snow plows showed up around 1:00p.m. they plowed the roads and then cleared our driveways. I must say, I was completely floored. So ... if your driveways are blocked, try to get out there and ask them to clear it. They will, we didn't even have to ask. The driver saw that there was about 35 people out and he said he'd come back to clear our driveways.
I was so mad that my street wasn't being cared for but, I called and as the saying goes "The squeeky wheel gets the grease". "
and when the snow plows showed up around 1:00p.m. they plowed the roads and then cleared our driveways. I must say, I was completely floored. So ... if your driveways are blocked, try to get out there and ask them to clear it. They will, we didn't even have to ask. The driver saw that there was about 35 people out and he said he'd come back to clear our driveways.
I was so mad that my street wasn't being cared for but, I called and as the saying goes "The squeeky wheel gets the grease". "
driveway snow shoveler wrote on Feb 5, 2008 10:39 AM:
" I live off a main county road and have had to clean up a number of times after a plow went through. I chose to live off this road and think the plows are doing their best, which appears quite good to me. It would be nice if people could exhibit a little more patience (including myself) and perhaps even drive a little more slowly. Kudos to the plow people.
Thanks "
Thanks "
TOOFUNNY wrote on Feb 5, 2008 9:57 AM:
" Thats a hoot!
Picture that...An office full of city engineers that has to close because the roof might fail... HELLO..Your ENGINEERS...At what point did it click in your engineer brain that it's snowing and that snow = weight, too much weight..NO GOOD?
Another bright spot in our city offices.. "
Picture that...An office full of city engineers that has to close because the roof might fail... HELLO..Your ENGINEERS...At what point did it click in your engineer brain that it's snowing and that snow = weight, too much weight..NO GOOD?
Another bright spot in our city offices.. "
Trisha wrote on Feb 5, 2008 6:54 AM:
" I have no problem with shoveling the burm out of my driveway after the plow has been there. However, the plow Monday pushed alll the street's snow INTO my driveway. We are talking a pile 3 feet long by 10 feet wide by 4 feet tall here. That should be illegal. I have never been so mad before. "
tickets wrote on Feb 4, 2008 3:54 PM:
" Police should start writing tickets for those who will not move their vehicles so that road crews can do their work. "
Madriver wrote on Feb 4, 2008 3:05 PM:
" When you are driving on a Shasta Way and because people are to lazy to clear their driveway and park in it, you are forced to pull over so that the person in the other lane can go by is ridiculous. Why can't people stop watching the news and help maybe prevent an accident or two. "
taxpayer wrote on Feb 4, 2008 1:48 PM:
" I understand the idea that some people choose to always look at the brighter side of things and that by thinking that those who are in charge are doing a good job and Kudo's are due all the way around..News FLASH..KUDO'S are not due..Snow removal is a JOB, Planing for it is a JOB.
Yup ,we have a bunch of snow, more than normal and plans should have been made for the several diffrent types of winters that we can have here, but alas..NO This disgusting display of planning exposes those in charge for what they are..OR should be..UNEMPLOYEED!
So, Jump off your self appointed moral high ground and snap into reality.. "
Yup ,we have a bunch of snow, more than normal and plans should have been made for the several diffrent types of winters that we can have here, but alas..NO This disgusting display of planning exposes those in charge for what they are..OR should be..UNEMPLOYEED!
So, Jump off your self appointed moral high ground and snap into reality.. "
Blanche wrote on Feb 4, 2008 1:26 PM:
" The snow is skirt high on my roof! 28+ inches on the north facing side. It took me almost 6 hours to shovel it off. Remind me to not wear a skirt next time!!! "
Kaysee D. wrote on Feb 4, 2008 12:18 PM:
" I think the County/City are doing a great job considering how much snow we have had. What I think is a shame is all the disabled and parked cars in the ways of the plows so they can't get through. People need to take responsibilty for their own removal and also plow or shovel in front to the mail boxes, I feel sorry for the mailmen who have to wheel thru this mess to get us our mail. Where we live we are the only neighbors who shovel our driveway and a few extra spots for visitors as well as the lots of a few senior citizens who live close by. I am a woman and have no complaints about the snow removal from the city/county but only the private residents who seem too lazy to get out their and shovel their own snow. To top it off our neighbors have the nerve to not park in their own unshovled spaces but the spaces I shoveled for my company and visitors. "
Kristi wrote on Feb 4, 2008 11:30 AM:
" Look here people... the snow is a force of nature. The city did not decide to dump all this snow over the basin. I am thankful to the men and women who are working the long, never ending hours to get out streets plowed. As for the people complaining about their driveways. How is the plower supposed to know your are old, disabled, sick, etc?? Do you want them to waste time plowing each and every driveway entrance around town or work on plowing the roads where we drive. Yes, the conditions are bad and yes I have spun my car a few times, but that does not give me a right to bad mouth the people trying to do their jobs just because it may not be done to MY satisfaction. Get off you high horses and start blaming the weather instead of the city and the plowers. And no, I do not work for the city nor am I related to or friends with a city worker or plower. I am just a citizen with better manners than most of you. "
taxpayer wrote on Feb 4, 2008 7:28 AM:
" To, "anonymous,Feb 1 @ 4:17 pm"
I pay my taxes...it's the job of the city ,county road depts to plow the roads using those dollars.
Yup, I will sit in my warm house and complain... as long as I am not getting what my tax dollars pay for.
I wonder what the budget for snow removal WAS vs what it is really going to cost.
I think we all know that the people doing the plowing are working hard and are making tons of money in the process.
To this point I have not heard of anyone being forced into a truck at gun point.
As mentioned SEVERAL times...It's the total LACK of planning that has most people upset.
Those who have the job of planning should be replaced. I cant think of any other job where a person could perform so poorly and keep thier job. Shameful. "
I pay my taxes...it's the job of the city ,county road depts to plow the roads using those dollars.
Yup, I will sit in my warm house and complain... as long as I am not getting what my tax dollars pay for.
I wonder what the budget for snow removal WAS vs what it is really going to cost.
I think we all know that the people doing the plowing are working hard and are making tons of money in the process.
To this point I have not heard of anyone being forced into a truck at gun point.
As mentioned SEVERAL times...It's the total LACK of planning that has most people upset.
Those who have the job of planning should be replaced. I cant think of any other job where a person could perform so poorly and keep thier job. Shameful. "
pril wrote on Feb 4, 2008 5:47 AM:
" The snow is over the 3-foot high chain link fence around my yard on Oregon Ave near the 97 onramp. In some spots, I can see an inch or two of the fence. "
KMHS wrote on Feb 3, 2008 8:33 PM:
" 31 inches in the middle (Or as middle as we can get to) of my back yard in the Sunset Villiage area. "
joyce wrote on Feb 3, 2008 7:15 PM:
" We have 22 inches in our front yard, yonna st, near w.oregon ave, not counting the huge high piles. "
Lyn wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:50 PM:
" I have 27 inches at my house which is right off West Main St. near old Riverside School. "
OIT Student wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:44 PM:
" There's about 3.5 feet of snow in some areas behind the Residence Hall on campus here...I ended up falling in farther than I thought! "
Rosemary wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:15 PM:
" 40 inches on Pat Drive, that's 1 mile up Round Lake Rd. from Highway 66 "
JPD wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:51 PM:
" The gentleman that plows Lakeshore Drive is doing a great job! The residents on Marina Drive couldn't be happier! He has taken great care of us. These guys need a pat on the back once in awhile instead of all the negativity! "
B wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:23 PM:
" It's great that the roads had gotten plowed this morning, but it would be really nice if there was a way that they could do it without causing it to block the driveways. Last night we were able to get in and out of our driveway, this morning my husband can't even go to work because we can't get out of our driveway as when they had plowed the road they ended up putting a nice mound of ice and snow packed to where we can't even get out.. "
JD wrote on Feb 3, 2008 8:00 AM:
" County, City and ODOT needs to do a better job of putting down gravel at ALL major intersections in town, especially ones that are on a slope. Intersections on S. 6th and the ones on Shasta and Washburn and Shasta and Crater Lake are extremely slick. Driver's wheels just spin when the light turns green. It's a simple solution, so what is the problem? "
herschel wrote on Feb 2, 2008 10:22 PM:
" Snow is a part of life in the Basin. We need the water. If you notice your neighbor has been plowed "in", help dig them out. I promise you the plow driver didn't intentionally block their driveway. If they need supplies and you can get out, go to the store for them. Act like a neighbor and a community and quit griping!! "
WOW wrote on Feb 2, 2008 7:41 PM:
" It is unbelievable to think that such negative comments about the snow removal in Klamath Falls has everyone in an uproar. Is it really that important for you to be driving in this stuff? Is it worth risking your life? I think not. Everyone new the storms were coming. If all were better prepared for it, law enforcement wouldn't have to risk their lives for the stupidity of others and the snow removal crew wouldn't have to watch out for your car that has slid into the side of the road because you were driving to fast. Clean up your own faults before attacking others.
"
"
Me wrote on Feb 2, 2008 5:49 PM:
" Great job H&N. You info has been up to the minute and detailed. I have been involved in some of the cancellations and I have seen it on H&N before receiving notification from work. "
jm wrote on Feb 2, 2008 2:52 PM:
" the city is plowing the roads ok,but are
plowing right to the driveways of senor
and disabled,if the older generation have
any problems ,how can use our cars,
some of us are on medication,and snow
cleanup is not easy job. cannot get out.
"
plowing right to the driveways of senor
and disabled,if the older generation have
any problems ,how can use our cars,
some of us are on medication,and snow
cleanup is not easy job. cannot get out.
"
Anonymous wrote on Feb 2, 2008 1:28 PM:
" In regards to Mindy's comment on Jan. 31st about OIT keeping students until 4 -
I would like people to know that there are a handful of workers keeping the campus clear of snow and have been working throughout the night and have to continue working through the day because the administration refuses to let them go home. This is a money issue. Keeping the campus open is also a money issue. While the administration should be held accountable for putting the students' lives in danger, please be grateful for the hard work the workers are doing at the same time. "
I would like people to know that there are a handful of workers keeping the campus clear of snow and have been working throughout the night and have to continue working through the day because the administration refuses to let them go home. This is a money issue. Keeping the campus open is also a money issue. While the administration should be held accountable for putting the students' lives in danger, please be grateful for the hard work the workers are doing at the same time. "
John wrote on Feb 2, 2008 11:57 AM:
" The post office didnt tell us they wernt delivering to some areas and they quit at 5 yesterday. I had to go downtown to get mine. Rain,hail sleet and snow? Right.
Good timing with folks waiting on checks the 1st. "
Good timing with folks waiting on checks the 1st. "
kmhs wrote on Feb 2, 2008 6:33 AM:
" hanks H&N! Eye of the Storm has become a very valuable resource (Along with Tripcheck.com) in the past few days. Where other sources force me to wait until the song/show ends. I may not have the oppourtunity to wait for the update when I need it...here I find the information available on my timeline. "
Ted wrote on Feb 1, 2008 10:38 PM:
" When I moved here in 1992, after the winter of 92/93 I bought a 4x4 pickup with limited slip rear axle and can drive anywhere, whether snow removal is adequet or not. We have to take care of ourselves the best we can, instead of depending on our government to cover our every desire. But I am concerned about mail service, I have not had any pickups or delivery since Wednesday. Has the Post Office shut down? "
SERIOUSLY PEOPLE wrote on Feb 1, 2008 8:49 PM:
" WHY ARE YOU ON HERE TO COMPLAIN. ITS NOT LIKE WE HAVE NOT SEEN SNOW BEFORE. GOSH! DO YOU GUYS HAVE NOTHING ELSE BETTER TO DO?
BUT THANK YOU H&N FOR PUTTING UP ALL OF THESE UPDATES. IM ON THE WEBSITE MORE THEN EVER. "
BUT THANK YOU H&N FOR PUTTING UP ALL OF THESE UPDATES. IM ON THE WEBSITE MORE THEN EVER. "
Anonymous wrote on Feb 1, 2008 4:17 PM:
" For all of you who think you can do a much better job plowing the roads, strap a plow to the front of your vehicle and get busy...stop sitting in the warmth of your homes and do something!! "
stuckathomeduetothesnow wrote on Feb 1, 2008 3:48 PM:
" It is not just the city that has poor snow removal plans. Out here in the county the only way the road gets plowed is because it is on the way to town. I have to think the people making these snow removal plans are just visitors to our part of the country and have absolutely no clue what it takes to keep up with the roads. For example- the cement turn blocks in the middle of Washburn Way between Bi-Mart and Safeway has to the be brain-child of somebody from a world away from our winters. What do you want to bet they are removed this spring or summer? If not, they should be.
P.S. Thanks to the people behind the steering wheel. Drop the blade once-in-awhile, it will make people think you are working. "
P.S. Thanks to the people behind the steering wheel. Drop the blade once-in-awhile, it will make people think you are working. "
PAID wrote on Feb 1, 2008 3:10 PM:
" I do thank the folks behind the plows..everytime I pay my taxes.
What you need to think about is the amount of overtime pay, time and a half, dbl time pay that they are pulling in. Yeah, thier laughing all the way to the bank because the city and county refuse to remember that 5 month of the year we have winter and that plans require looking at the worst that could happen..not playing the game of "I think we will have a mild winter" so lets not budget for a bad winter..lets put the funds someplace else and hope for a mild winter and then try to find the funds when it's too late.
Yeah, I dont feel sorry for a person who agrees to do a job at an agreed wage and then has to do it....IT'S CALLED A JOB AND IF THEY DONT WANT TO DO IT, YOU CAN BET THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF UNEMPLOYEED FOLKS THAT WOULD LOVE THE JOB AND BE THANKFUL TO HAVE IT! "
What you need to think about is the amount of overtime pay, time and a half, dbl time pay that they are pulling in. Yeah, thier laughing all the way to the bank because the city and county refuse to remember that 5 month of the year we have winter and that plans require looking at the worst that could happen..not playing the game of "I think we will have a mild winter" so lets not budget for a bad winter..lets put the funds someplace else and hope for a mild winter and then try to find the funds when it's too late.
Yeah, I dont feel sorry for a person who agrees to do a job at an agreed wage and then has to do it....IT'S CALLED A JOB AND IF THEY DONT WANT TO DO IT, YOU CAN BET THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF UNEMPLOYEED FOLKS THAT WOULD LOVE THE JOB AND BE THANKFUL TO HAVE IT! "
Thanks wrote on Feb 1, 2008 2:26 PM:
" You may not be happy with the snow removal but please remember to thank the people that are attempting to do their jobs.
It isn't the men and women in the snowplows fault that the city was unprepared. They are working long hours with little thanks.
If it weren't for them, we'd all be stuck at home.
"
It isn't the men and women in the snowplows fault that the city was unprepared. They are working long hours with little thanks.
If it weren't for them, we'd all be stuck at home.
"
Displeased wrote on Feb 1, 2008 1:21 PM:
" I see I am not the only one who is unhappy with the snow removal. The city has not done a satisfactory job in taking care of the streets. The snow piles in the roads are completely unacceptable, not too mention a huge safety hazard. Obviously, they have not panned for this amount of snowfall, but that is no excuse. I don't normally gripe without offering a solution, but the city has the resources necessary to take care of the problem. "
whoshouldbereading wrote on Feb 1, 2008 9:28 AM:
" I wonder if the city or county folks are reading ANY of the comments. If they are I hope they will have a better understanding of how displeased people are with the poor planning related to snow removal.
My gut feeling is that they could care less and are counting money and talking about increasing taxes because they have been caught with their pants down. "
My gut feeling is that they could care less and are counting money and talking about increasing taxes because they have been caught with their pants down. "
Kevin wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:11 PM:
" This column is great. Whoever thought this up is brilliant, give him a raise. "
anonamous wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:08 PM:
" yea well my granppa just died in a crash and ther wass nothing anyone could do they have to put the snow somewhere they could get some trucks that they put gravel in and pile snow in them with their big tractors or they could gravel the road or even sand "
B.E. wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:49 PM:
" thankyou very much herald and news, your the most help of all during this storm keeping us updated about the road hazzards around klamath. we appreciate all that you do :-)....as for the city of klamath you do nothing for us and our community during times like this. "
Mindy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:03 PM:
" I can not believe OIT would risk everyone by making them stay until 4pm. Have they looked outside today. It has never stopped. They did however offer the option of staying there overnight if the roads were to bad. Come on if the roads are that bad why are they not letting everyone leave. I hope they do not have a law suit on there hands from someone who gets hurt on their way home at 4. "
Nikola V. wrote on Jan 31, 2008 12:38 PM:
" I'm very impressed by how Herald and News is upkeeping this website. It's almost like CNN ! Way to go... helps me to know what's happening around town and I can advise visitors which way to take to get into town. Speaking of visitors, please be understanding when cars are in the 'wrong' lane - those of us who know what the lanes look like under the snow can at most be role models - no honking required :)
"
"
snow removal wrote on Jan 31, 2008 12:28 PM:
" The city and county would be well advised to tend to their own snow removal and quit issuing orders to others.
If they spent more time doing rather than telling others what to do.. everyone would be better off. "
If they spent more time doing rather than telling others what to do.. everyone would be better off. "
Runoff wrote on Jan 31, 2008 11:15 AM:
" Let's see if they are planning for the run off once all of this starts to melt. If what we have seen so far is any indication of thier ability (inability) to plan. BUY A BOAT! "
Caught wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:20 AM:
" The snow removal plan is NOT working. Let me pass onto those who have the job of planning of the snow removal.
YOU PLAN FOR THE WORST AND HOPE FOR THE BEST, NOT PLAN FOR THE BEST AND HOPE FOR THE WORST.
Someone will be hurt or killed and you can bet that a factor in that will be the lack of snow removal or that the City or county snow removal crews put snow in a location that did not allow a driver to safely cross a road and their view of traffic was obstructed by your snow pile. This will more than likley result in a law suit. "
YOU PLAN FOR THE WORST AND HOPE FOR THE BEST, NOT PLAN FOR THE BEST AND HOPE FOR THE WORST.
Someone will be hurt or killed and you can bet that a factor in that will be the lack of snow removal or that the City or county snow removal crews put snow in a location that did not allow a driver to safely cross a road and their view of traffic was obstructed by your snow pile. This will more than likley result in a law suit. "
Editor wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:46 AM:
" WATCH OUT if you are traveling North on Washburn Way -- when you get to the Crater Lake Parkway intersection, stay out of the right hand lane -- cars and trucks are getting stuck on the slick ice at the light. They're spinning their wheels a bit in the left hand lane, but are able to make it out of the bowl. "
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Angel wrote on Feb 8, 2008 10:49 AM: