Medford, OR – Drivers across Southern Oregon and Northern California face near whiteout conditions and snow-covered highways through 10 a.m. Thursday, with up to 2 feet of accumulation in higher elevations and icy valley roads developing overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect for Siskiyou County, Jackson County, central Douglas County and eastern Curry and Josephine counties. Snow totals range from 3 to 14 inches in many communities, with up to 20 inches above 5,000 feet in parts of Siskiyou County and 1 to 2 feet in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. Winds could gust to 40 mph over exposed terrain, creating blowing snow and reduced visibility.
In Northern California, Interstate 5 south of Weed, Highway 97, Highway 89 and Black Butte Summit are likely to see heavy snowfall through Wednesday night. Etna, Callahan and Happy Camp could pick up 3 to 8 inches at valley floors, with significantly higher totals above 4,000 feet.
In Southern Oregon, Medford, Ashland and Grants Pass may see 1 to 3 inches below 2,000 feet, while Sexton Pass, Hayes Hill, Canyon Creek Pass and areas near Prospect and Butte Falls face 6 to 10 inches. Wet roads will refreeze overnight, increasing crash risk during both commutes.
Drivers should carry chains, pack emergency supplies and check TripCheck or Caltrans QuickMap before traveling. Additional advisories may be issued as heavier snow redevelops Wednesday night into Thursday morning.
