Yreka, California – Drivers heading through the Siskiyou Mountains could face slick roads, reduced visibility, and falling tree limbs starting Tuesday as a high-impact winter storm moves across the region, bringing two waves of heavy mountain snow and powerful winds.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning for elevations above 5,500 feet in Siskiyou County and the southern Oregon Cascades. Snow levels are expected to fluctuate during the event, with periods of wet snow combining with wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph over exposed terrain.
The most hazardous conditions are expected near Mt. Ashland Ski Park, Crater Lake, and along higher mountain passes, where up to 6 inches of snow could accumulate. Winds combined with snowfall may lead to whiteout conditions at times, especially Tuesday afternoon and again late Tuesday night.
Travel impacts are likely during the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Strong winds could also down trees and power lines, leading to localized outages. Motorists are urged to slow down, carry winter travel supplies, and check road conditions before heading out.
Additional advisories or upgrades remain possible as the storm evolves, with hazardous mountain conditions expected to persist through Wednesday morning.
