MEDFORD, Ore. – A calm, starry sky greets Southern Oregon this Thursday morning, but the stillness won’t last long. The Rogue Valley is about to see its quiet October streak break as a Pacific storm system rolls in late Friday—ushering in a wet, breezy weekend that marks the true return of fall across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, clouds will increase through Thursday evening before showers develop Friday morning and intensify by afternoon. Rain will be widespread by Friday night, lasting into Saturday with gusts near 25 mph along the valley floor and stronger over mountain passes. Rainfall totals could reach up to an inch in parts of Jackson and Josephine counties, making for slick roads and low visibility along I-5 from Ashland to Canyonville.
Temperatures will drop from near 70°F on Friday to the upper 50s by Saturday, adding a brisk chill to the rain-soaked air. Higher elevations in the Cascades may even see the first hint of snow above 6,000 feet, a subtle preview of what’s ahead as the Pacific storm track strengthens.
Sunday brings lingering showers and gray skies before partial clearing begins Monday. Early next week looks drier and slightly warmer, giving residents a short break before another front eyes the coast by midweek.
For now, Southern Oregon residents should plan for wet commutes, cooler afternoons, and a true autumn reset—just in time for late-October festivities. Keep rain gear close and stay weather-aware as the first strong system of the season settles in.
Five-Day Outlook for Medford, OR:
Thu: 72/45 – Mostly sunny, calm, pleasant.
Fri: 70/51 – Rain developing; breezy.
Sat: 57/44 – Rain, cooler, and gusty.
Sun: 54/41 – Showers linger; gray and damp.
Mon: 64/40 – Mostly cloudy, drier trend ahead.
