Medford, Oregon – Rain is beginning to wind down across much of southern Oregon Monday, but winter impacts are lingering in the mountains where snow continues to fall at higher elevations, keeping travel conditions hazardous well into the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, this round of precipitation is expected to come to an end by Monday afternoon for valleys and lower elevations. Rainfall totals through early afternoon have generally ranged from a few tenths of an inch to around an inch in some spots, providing beneficial moisture without widespread flooding concerns.
The bigger concern remains above 4,000 feet, where colder air has supported ongoing snowfall. The Cascades, Siskiyou Summit, and higher terrain east of the Rogue Valley are seeing accumulating snow, which could continue to impact travel on routes such as Highway 140, Highway 62 near Crater Lake, and portions of Highway 138. Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility remain possible through the afternoon hours.
While conditions improve later Monday as precipitation tapers off, untreated mountain roads may remain slick into the evening. Drivers heading into higher elevations are urged to carry chains, slow down, and check road conditions before traveling.
Forecasters note this is only a brief break in active weather. Another potentially impactful system is expected midweek, with increasing chances for mountain snow returning Wednesday into Thursday. Residents and travelers should continue monitoring updates as the pattern remains active.
