Medford, Oregon – Travel across much of Oregon’s Cascade region could become extremely dangerous through Thursday morning as multiple storm systems deliver heavy snow, strong winds, and rapidly falling snow levels.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the southern Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains through Thursday morning. Snow accumulations of 8 to 24 inches are expected, with the heaviest totals at higher elevations. Crater Lake National Park could see 18 to 24 inches, while Lake of the Woods may receive up to 15 inches. Siskiyou Summit along Interstate 5 is forecast to pick up 3 to 6 inches, creating hazardous driving conditions.
Snow will intensify again Wednesday afternoon and evening as snow levels drop sharply, falling as low as 1,400 feet near passes north of Grants Pass. Gusty winds up to 45 mph across exposed ridges could cause blowing snow and poor visibility, especially overnight.
Additional Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect for the Douglas County foothills above 2,000 feet, including Highway 138 near Toketee Falls, where 4 to 8 inches of snow could slow travel from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday morning.
Farther north, the National Weather Service in Portland reports 1 to 3 feet of additional snow in the Oregon and southern Washington Cascades through Thursday afternoon, impacting Santiam Pass, Willamette Pass, and Government Camp.
Officials urge travelers to postpone mountain travel if possible, monitor TripCheck road conditions, and prepare for potential closures as warnings remain in effect through Thursday.
