Medford, Ore. – Oregonians should prepare for a sharp change in conditions as low pressure settles over the Pacific Northwest on Monday, bringing widespread showers and the chance for thunderstorms through Tuesday night. Temperatures across the region will run 10 to 15 degrees cooler than normal, more typical of late October than early September.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, showers are expected to be widespread with a 20–40% chance of embedded thunderstorms Monday and Tuesday. Rainfall totals between a half-inch and three-quarters of an inch are possible west of the Cascades, with lighter amounts in central and eastern Oregon.
Travelers along Interstate 5 and Highway 97 should anticipate periods of heavy rain and reduced visibility, especially during the morning and evening commute hours. Localized ponding on roads could slow traffic. The agency advised residents to keep electronics charged in case of power flickers from lightning and avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms.
Daytime highs will settle in the 60s across the coast and higher Cascades, with the Rogue Valley holding in the low 70s. Cooler air lingers through midweek, with showers tapering off by Wednesday. Additional advisories may be issued if storm development increases.