HOOD RIVER, Ore. -- A winter storm warning was in effect Wednesday for the Columbia River Gorge, and snow was causing hazardous driving conditions. Schools in Hood River released students one hour early.
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The warning was scheduled to end at 6 p.m. Snow accumulation of two to five inches was expected, and would mostly affect areas east of Cascade Locks and in the Upper Hood River Valley, the NWS announced.
More: Latest KGW forecast
KGW Meteorologist Nick Allard said there was a good possibility of even more snow, thanks to strong east winds keeping temperatures down.
Photos: Snow blankets the Columbia River Gorge
"We could see a few inches all the way up to about 7 inches especially with elevation," he said Wednesday morning. "The gorge will see snow until at least the early afternoon."
Just before noon, the Hood River School District announced that students would be released from their schools one hour early.
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"Only travel in an emergency," the NWS warned. "If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency."
Officials recommended that drivers check road conditions on TripCheck and by listening to local newscasts before they venture out.
School Closures & Delays
Video: Snow on Oregon beaches
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