Inclement Weather

For OHSU Hospitals and Clinics

OHSU Hospital, Doernbecher Children's Hospital and the Emergency Department always remain open. Every effort is made to keep all outpatient clinic locations open as well, while still ensuring the safe arrival of our patients.

When the weather forecast is calling for ice or snow, call the OHSU Alert Line: 503 494-9021. 

A recorded message will provide road conditions and information for patients, students and employees.

If you are a patient and are concerned about road conditions, or want to change your appointment, please call your doctor's office directly.

Information for employees and students

Road Conditions

View live road cams

Sam Jackson Park Road above the water tower is a designated snow zone; traction devices are required when snow is on the ground, falling or imminent. An alternate Marquam Hill route—taking Terwilliger to Campus Drive—may be available without traction devices even when Sam Jackson Park Road requires them, but the safest option is public transportation.

Public Transportation

Public transportation may be the safest option during bad weather, but you’ll want to be prepared:

  • TriMet/Streetcar: TriMet may decide to suspend service to Marquam Hill and instead divert buses to the base of the Tram (details). Check TriMet’s service alerts page or call 503 231-3197 for altered routes. Portland Streetcar also stops at the base of the Tram.
  • C-TRAN: C-TRAN will cancel Line 190 Marquam Hill Express (details) service during inclement weather, and instead run an alternative to/from downtown Portland — where riders can then transfer to TriMet and then the Tram. Check C-TRAN’s website or call 503 283-8054.
  • Portland Aerial Tram: If buses are diverted (see above), Tram wait times could increase. Plan ahead and dress warmly. Tram hours will be expanded as necessary. Snow and ice per se won’t stop the Tram, but high winds can force its closure because they can make the trip unsteady and unpleasant for many. In high winds, road conditions permitting, shuttle buses will run instead.