Medford, Ore. – Thunderstorms are expected to build Friday afternoon across southern Oregon, bringing lightning, gusty winds, and the chance of small hail. The highest risk will be in the Cascades near Crater Lake and across areas north and east of the mountains, where outdoor plans could be interrupted by fast-moving cells.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, isolated to scattered storms may develop after midday Friday, with cloud-to-ground lightning and downpours posing the main hazards. Gusty outflow winds of 20 to 40 mph could quickly lower visibility on highways including U.S. 97 and U.S. 395, while brief heavy rain may create slick travel on mountain passes.
Communities from Roseburg and Grants Pass to Lakeview and Paisley should be alert for sudden weather changes. Campers and hikers around Crater Lake and Chemult are especially urged to have shelter plans ready as exposed areas could see dangerous lightning strikes.
Residents are advised to move indoors at the first sign of thunder, avoid ridge tops or open fields, and secure outdoor items that could be blown around by strong winds.
The National Weather Service says additional rainfall and storm chances return early next week, with temperatures trending 5 to 15 degrees cooler than normal through midweek.
Five Day Forecast for Medford, OR
- Friday: Isolated thunderstorms, highs near 85, gusty winds possible
- Saturday: Partly cloudy, highs in the low 80s
- Sunday: Cooler, highs in the upper 70s, chance of showers late
- Monday: Rain likely, highs in the low 70s, thunderstorms possible
- Tuesday: Showers and cooler, highs in the upper 60s
