News Stories for Wed., Nov. 1, 2017

The studded tire season in Oregon begins today, November first, and runs through March 31st. Oregon Department of Transportation encourages drivers to consider other types of traction tires or chains. A study completed in 2014 concluded studded tires cause about $8.5 million in damage each year on state highways. Tires made for use in severe snow conditions, carry a special symbol on the tire sidewall showing a three-peaked mountain and snowflake. ODOT says they work about as well as studded tires on ice, but work better than studded tires or regular tires in most other winter conditions. And they cause no more damage to road surfaces than regular tires.

There are two more meetings coming up regarding the proposed 2018 Tribal Budget. Tuesday, November 7^th at the Sidwalter Fire Hall and a General Council meeting set for Monday, November 13^th at the Agency Longhouse.

The Madras Boys Soccer team is hosting a first round 4A state playoff game today. The fifth ranked White Buffalos face number 12 Hidden Valley of Grants Pass. It starts at 3:00 at the MHS soccer fields. GO BUFFS!

The National Weather Service says colder and wet conditions are expected starting tomorrow night and lasting through the weekend, as a large upper level low pressure will move south from the Gulf of Alaska. We can expect significantly cooler temperatures in Central Oregon with widespread precipitation. Snow levels will fall to between 2500 and 4500 feet Friday, lowering to 1500 to 2500 feet by Sunday. Accumulating snows can be expected at the higher pass levels. A little snow is possible but chilly rain is what is expected for the lower elevations.