Medford, OR – Snow is rapidly covering mountain roads across Josephine and eastern Curry counties early Thursday, with up to 16 inches falling in higher terrain and creating dangerous travel conditions through 10 a.m. PST.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect above 1,500 feet, while a Winter Weather Advisory covers lower elevations until 10 a.m. Heavy snow between 4 and 8 inches is expected above 1,500 feet, with 8 to 16 inches possible in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. Below 1,500 feet, including Grants Pass and portions of the Illinois Valley, 1 to 5 inches of wet snow is forecast, though Grants Pass may see a mix with totals closer to an inch.
The majority of accumulation is expected before 5 a.m., with snow tapering by midmorning. Sexton Pass, Smith Hill and Stage Pass on Interstate 5 are likely to see hazardous conditions, along with Hayes Hill on Highway 199 and Bear Camp Road. Travel near Cave Junction, O’Brien and Selma may become difficult to impossible at higher elevations.
Drivers should slow down, carry chains and prepare for sudden visibility drops in heavier bursts. Check TripCheck.com or call 511 for the latest road updates.
Conditions will gradually improve late this morning, but icy patches may linger on mountain routes even after snowfall eases.
