Etna, California – Travel over Etna Summit and along Highway 3 south of Callahan could turn treacherous by late Sunday as heavy snow targets higher elevations in western Siskiyou County through Tuesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Sunday evening through late Tuesday night for areas above 3,000 feet. Forecasters say 6 to 12 inches of snow is possible, with 1 to 2 feet above 5,000 feet. Wind gusts up to 40 mph could create blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility on exposed ridges.
The greatest impacts are expected at Etna Summit on Sawyers Bar Road and stretches of Highway 3 south of Callahan. Snow levels drop to around 4,500 feet Sunday night, fall near 4,000 feet Monday, and may dip to 2,000 feet by Tuesday morning. That could bring light accumulations of 1 to 3 inches into the Scott and Klamath River Valleys, expanding slick conditions beyond the higher terrain.
Officials urge residents to delay non-essential travel, especially during the Monday morning and evening commutes. Drivers who must travel should carry chains, blankets, water and a fully stocked winter emergency kit.
Additional advisories or upgrades are possible as the storm approaches. The watch remains in effect through late Tuesday night.
