Medford, Oregon – Dangerously high temperatures are set to grip Southern Oregon and far Northern California, with triple-digit heat expected from Saturday afternoon through Monday evening. Residents from Medford to Yreka should prepare for potentially record-breaking highs and an elevated risk of heat-related illness.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, an Extreme Heat Watch is in effect for Jackson, Josephine, and Eastern Curry Counties in Oregon, as well as Central and Western Siskiyou County in California. The warning period begins at 2 p.m. Saturday and may last into Monday night, with daytime highs forecast to soar above 100°F in communities like Grants Pass, Ashland, and Happy Camp.
Cities including Yreka, Merlin, and Fort Jones are also at risk, with local emergency officials urging people to limit outdoor activity, avoid strenuous exercise during peak heat, and check on elderly neighbors or relatives. Residents should stay hydrated, seek out air-conditioned spaces, and never leave children or pets in vehicles.
Major highways—such as I-5 and Highway 199—could see increased incidents of vehicle breakdowns or heat stress. Power grids may be strained, so charging essential devices ahead of time is advised. This stretch of extreme heat is the longest for the region so far this summer and comes on the heels of a mild June, raising concerns for vulnerable populations.
The heat watch remains in effect until at least Monday evening. Additional advisories could be issued if conditions worsen.
