Mount Shasta, California – Drivers across Siskiyou County could face near whiteout conditions and chain controls by late Sunday as a powerful winter storm targets Northern California’s mountain corridors through Tuesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Sunday evening through late Tuesday night for southern and eastern Siskiyou County. Forecasters warn of 8 to 16 inches of snow, with up to 2 feet possible above 5,000 feet. Winds may gust to 40 mph across exposed ridges and passes, reducing visibility and creating blowing snow.
Interstate 5 south of Weed, Highways 97 and 89, and mountain passes including Black Butte Summit, Snowman Summit and Dead Horse Summit face the highest risk of hazardous travel. Snow levels drop to around 4,500 feet Sunday night, fall to near 3,500 feet Monday under heavier bands, and could reach as low as 2,000 feet by Tuesday morning. That brings accumulating snow into communities such as Mount Shasta City, Dunsmuir, McCloud and Tennant.
Officials urge residents to delay non-essential travel, especially during the Monday commute. Carry chains, blankets, water and a full winter emergency kit if travel cannot wait.
More advisories or warnings may follow as the storm strengthens. The watch remains in effect through late Tuesday night.
