Medford, Oregon – Interstate 5 over Siskiyou Summit and Sexton Pass could become nearly impassable at times through 10 a.m. Thursday as heavy snow piles up across southern Oregon and northern California.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect above 1,500 to 2,000 feet for Jackson, Josephine and Douglas counties, with 3 to 6 inches expected and up to 10 inches above 2,500 feet. The Kalmiopsis Wilderness could see 1 to 2 feet of snow. Lower elevations, including Medford, Ashland, Grants Pass and Roseburg, are under a Winter Weather Advisory for 1 to 3 inches, enough to turn wet roads icy overnight.
Siskiyou Pass on I-5, Hayes Hill on Highway 199, Roberts Mountain Pass and Canyon Creek Pass are all at risk for chain requirements or closures. Along the southern Oregon coast from Coos Bay to Gold Beach, up to 3 inches of wet snow could briefly accumulate by 10 a.m. Wednesday, even near sea level.
Heavier snowfall redevelops Wednesday night into Thursday, increasing the risk of power outages and stranded motorists. Drivers should delay nonessential travel, carry emergency supplies and check TripCheck.com or Caltrans QuickMap before leaving.
Advisories remain in effect through Thursday morning, with additional updates possible as the next wave strengthens.
