Medford, Oregon – Heavy rain will begin pounding the Oregon-California border region by Monday afternoon, with up to 6 inches possible along the southern Oregon coast and rapid rises expected on creeks and small rivers through Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a warm atmospheric river will spread widespread rainfall across Coos, Curry, Douglas, Jackson and Josephine counties in Oregon, along with Siskiyou County in Northern California. Coastal communities could see 2 to 4 inches of rain, with locally higher totals in the Curry County coast ranges. Inland west side valleys, including Medford and Grants Pass, may pick up around an inch, while the Cascades and Siskiyou slopes see 1 to 3 inches.
Snow levels will climb well above 7,000 feet, accelerating snowmelt and increasing runoff into area watersheds. Small streams and creeks may rise quickly during heavier bursts, leading to nuisance flooding and ponding on roadways. The Coquille Basin and fast-responding waterways like Deer Creek in Roseburg and Little Butte Creek in Eagle Point face a low but increasing flood risk.
Drivers should watch for water-covered roads and avoid low-lying crossings. Residents near creeks should clear drains and prepare for swift water rises. Flood Watches could be issued if rainfall intensifies Monday night into Tuesday.
