Oregon Hit by Heavy Rains, Snow and Winds

An intense storm slammed into Oregon on Wednesday, knocking out electricity to thousands, snarling traffic and dumping heavy rains and snow.

Along the coast, a power line blown down by high winds ignited a fire at a motel in Lincoln City, state police said.

Wind gusts reached 87 m.p.h. at the state police office in Newport and 55 m.p.h. at Portland International Airport.

Trees, their roots loosened by the heavy rainfall, were blown down throughout the Portland area as the storm reached its peak intensity during rush-hour traffic.