Yreka, CA – High-elevation travel across the Scott and Marble Mountains is expected to become treacherous as a late-season winter surge drops up to 13 inches of snow on Western Siskiyou County peaks through 11 a.m. Sunday. While lower elevations may see rain, areas above 5,000 feet will face accumulating snow and freezing temperatures, creating significant hazards for anyone navigating the region’s remote mountain passes.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect at 8 p.m. Saturday and remains in place through Sunday morning. Forecasters expect total snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches for most high-elevation areas, though mountain peaks and ridgelines could see locally higher totals reaching 13 inches. The most intense snowfall is expected during the overnight hours, directly impacting travel across the Salmon and Scott Mountain ranges.
Impacts will be most severe on unpaved roads and high-elevation segments of the regional highway system. Authorities warn that visibility could drop rapidly during heavier snow squalls, and surfaces—especially bridges and overpasses—will become slick as the system moves through. Travelers heading toward the interior wilderness or utilizing remote access roads should anticipate difficult conditions and potential delays until the system begins to clear Sunday afternoon.
Motorists are urged to slow down and exercise extreme caution when navigating steep grades. If travel is essential, verify road conditions before leaving by calling 511 or checking the Caltrans QuickMap service. It is highly recommended to carry a winter emergency kit, including tire chains, extra food, and warm blankets, as cellular service can be unreliable in these high-terrain areas. Conditions are expected to stabilize by Sunday afternoon, though high-elevation snow may persist as a hazard through the start of the new work week.
