Oregon – Cold air sits heavy in the valleys, smoke and haze refuse to move, and the Rogue Valley feels sealed in as 2025 comes to a close. A stagnant weather pattern is trapping pollutants near the ground, raising air quality concerns across southern Oregon through New Year’s Eve.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, an Air Stagnation Advisory remains in effect through late afternoon for valley locations west of the Cascades, including Medford, Ashland, Central Point, Grants Pass, and surrounding communities. A strong temperature inversion and light winds are preventing pollutants from dispersing, allowing air quality to worsen through the day.
In the Medford area, calm conditions and sub-freezing morning temperatures near 30 degrees are contributing to the buildup. Residents may notice lingering haze, reduced visibility, and irritation for those with asthma or respiratory conditions. Officials urge limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding wood burning if possible.
Travel impacts are minimal, but cold mornings combined with mist could still create slick patches on bridges and shaded roads. As the day progresses, clouds increase and temperatures climb into the mid 40s, though the stagnant air mass holds firm for now.
Relief is on the way. Rain chances increase by New Year’s Day, helping to mix out the inversion and improve air quality. By Friday and into the first weekend of 2026, steadier rain spreads across southern Oregon, replacing the trapped cold air with a milder, unsettled pattern. Snow levels remain well above valley floors, keeping winter precipitation confined to higher elevations.
Until the pattern breaks, sensitive groups should stay indoors when possible and monitor local air quality reports. Additional advisories could be issued if stagnation lingers longer than expected. Noticing haze where you live? Share what conditions look like in your part of the valley.
Five-Day Outlook for Medford, Oregon
• Today: Mostly cloudy, stagnant air; highs near 46
• New Year’s Day: Rain likely, improving air quality; highs near 50
• Friday: Rain likely, milder; highs near 56
• Saturday: Periods of rain; highs near 51
• Sunday: Mostly cloudy with showers; highs near 47
