Medford, Oregon – Snow is creating dangerous travel conditions across southern Oregon early Monday as multiple winter weather advisories remain in effect, with heavy snow bands targeting mountain passes and key highways during the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, snow levels have dropped to around 4,000 feet, allowing accumulating snow to impact both mountain routes and parts of the Klamath Basin. In the South Central Oregon Cascades, including Diamond Lake and Crater Lake, an additional 5 to 9 inches of snow is expected through late Monday afternoon, with wind gusts up to 35 mph producing blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
Farther east, the Klamath Basin, northern and eastern Klamath County, and western Lake County are under an advisory until midday. Areas including Klamath Falls, Chemult, and Sprague River could see 2 to 4 inches of snow, with the most hazardous conditions expected between early morning and mid-morning as heavier snow bands move through. Snowfall rates could briefly reach up to one inch per hour, making roads treacherous in a short amount of time.
The Siskiyou Mountains and southern Oregon Cascades, including I-5 near Siskiyou Summit and Highway 140 near Lake of the Woods, are also seeing accumulating snow. Totals of 3 to 5 inches are expected, with higher elevations above 4,500 feet picking up as much as 6 to 9 inches before conditions improve around midday.
ODOT urges drivers to avoid mountain travel if possible, reduce speeds, and expect delays on Highways 97, 138, 62, 230, and I-5 near Siskiyou Summit. Advisories expire later today, but slick roads and reduced visibility may linger even after snowfall tapers. Motorists are encouraged to check TripCheck before traveling and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions through the day.
