Medford, OR – A strong Pacific storm is expected to move into southern Oregon early Thursday and persist into Friday, bringing widespread strong winds, potential power outages, and hazardous travel conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, south to southwest winds will strengthen throughout Thursday, peaking during the afternoon and evening hours, before gradually easing by Friday morning. Widespread wind gusts of 25 to 40 mph are expected across much of the region.
The strongest impacts are forecast for the Oregon coast, coastal headlands, the Cascades, and east-side higher terrain, where peak wind gusts of 55 to 75 mph are possible in the windiest locations. These powerful gusts could be strong enough to down trees and branches, damage power lines, and cause scattered power outages.
Forecasters warn that high-profile vehicles may experience dangerous driving conditions, especially along exposed highways, mountain passes, and coastal routes. Unsecured outdoor objects could also be blown around.
Communities potentially affected include Medford, Grants Pass, Ashland, Roseburg, coastal areas near Coos Bay and Brookings, and mountain regions along the Cascades and east of the range.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, prepare for possible power disruptions, and use caution when traveling, particularly Thursday afternoon and evening when winds are expected to be strongest.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Friday as winds subside, but officials recommend monitoring local forecasts for updates as the storm evolves.
