Yreka, CA – A powerful winter storm is bringing heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions to Northern California, with a Winter Storm Warning in effect through 5 p.m. Tuesday for parts of Siskiyou County and surrounding high elevations.
According to the National Weather Service Medford, the warning applies to areas above 4,500 feet, including the Sawyers Bar Road west of Etna. Snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet are expected, with wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph reducing visibility and increasing the risk of whiteout conditions. The warning period began late Monday morning.
Winter Weather Advisories are also active for Cascade passes along Highways 230, 138, 62, and 140, where 12 to 24 inches of snow could fall. East of the Cascades, areas along Highways 97, 140, 395, and 139 may see 3 to 6 inches, with greater totals in higher terrain.
The advisory includes I-5 near Weed and Highway 89, beginning at 11 a.m. Monday and extending through 5 p.m. Tuesday. Travelers are urged to avoid unnecessary trips, use chains where required, and check road conditions via quickmap.dot.ca.gov before departing.
Officials advise stocking emergency kits and preparing for possible delays or closures due to rapidly changing weather.
