Medford, OR – A significant winter storm is set to impact the Pacific Northwest, with heavy snowfall expected in the Oregon and Washington Cascades from Wednesday afternoon through Friday evening. Travel disruptions and hazardous conditions are likely as two storm systems bring substantial snow accumulations.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Medford, areas above 4,500 feet in the southern Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains, including Crater and Diamond Lakes, could see between 8 to 10 inches of snow on Wednesday, with an additional 6 to 12 inches on Friday. Winds may gust up to 45 mph, further complicating travel on key highways such as 140, 62, 138, and 230.
The NWS in Portland has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the South Washington Cascades and the North and Central Oregon Cascades, where snowfall totals could reach up to 20 inches at elevations of 4,500 feet and up to 35 inches at higher elevations. Impacted areas include Government Camp, Santiam Pass, Willamette Pass, and McKenzie Pass.
Officials warn that roads, bridges, and overpasses will become slick and hazardous, urging travelers to carry emergency supplies and check road conditions before heading out. A brief lull is expected on Thursday, but forecast uncertainty remains regarding its duration.
Drivers should prepare for potential delays and monitor updates from the NWS and Oregon Department of Transportation at www.tripcheck.com.
