Medford, OR – A significant winter storm is set to impact southern Oregon, with heavy snowfall and strong winds expected from Wednesday morning through Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 7 a.m. Wednesday to 4 p.m. Thursday for the South Central Oregon Cascades and the Siskiyou Mountains. Forecasts indicate snow accumulations of 6 to 8 inches, with up to 12 inches near Crater Lake. Wind gusts could reach 45 mph, creating hazardous travel conditions.
The storm will affect major highways, including Highway 140 near Lake of the Woods, Highway 62 toward Crater Lake, and Highways 138 and 232 near Diamond Lake. The heaviest snowfall is expected between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wednesday, with rates of over an inch per hour, potentially reducing visibility to a quarter mile.
Travelers should prepare for difficult driving conditions and possible road closures. Officials recommend carrying emergency supplies, including a flashlight, food, and water. For real-time updates, visit tripcheck.com or call 511.
