Weather
Southern Oregon Frost Alert: 30 Sunday, 27 Possible Monday Oct 12
Medford, OR – Residents across Southern Oregon are facing two potentially damaging cold mornings as temperatures drop near freezing Sunday, followed by an even colder threat Monday. Forecasters warn t
By Mason Reid · 2026-10-10T15:01:42.753Z
Medford, OR – Residents across Southern Oregon are facing two potentially damaging cold mornings as temperatures drop near freezing Sunday, followed by an even colder threat Monday. Forecasters warn that temperatures could plunge to 27 degrees in portions of Jackson and Josephine counties, putting gardens, crops and other sensitive vegetation at risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Frost Advisory remains in effect from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. PDT Sunday, Oct. 11 , for valleys across Jackson and Josephine counties. A separate Freeze Watch has been issued for late Sunday night through Monday morning.
The advisory includes communities such as Medford, Ashland, Jacksonville, Grants Pass, Rogue River, Gold Hill, Cave Junction, Merlin, Applegate, Shady Cove and Butte Falls.
Most valley locations are expected to experience temperatures in the mid 30s Sunday morning. However, traditionally colder areas, including Ashland and portions of the Illinois Valley near Cave Junction and O'Brien, could fall into the lower 30s.
The greater concern arrives Monday morning , when a more widespread drop toward freezing is possible. The National Weather Service says temperatures could reach 27 degrees in some locations if the colder conditions develop.
The Freeze Watch indicates that sub freezing temperatures are possible, but the event has not yet been confirmed as a Freeze Warning.
Frost and freezing conditions could kill crops and other temperature sensitive vegetation, particularly plants left outdoors without protection.
Residents are encouraged to bring vulnerable potted plants indoors and cover tender outdoor vegetation before temperatures fall Saturday night.
Gardeners and agricultural operations should remain alert through Monday morning because the second round of cold could affect more valley locations.
The Sunday Frost Advisory is scheduled to expire at 8 a.m. PDT , while the Freeze Watch covers late Sunday night into Monday morning.
Residents should monitor updated National Weather Service forecasts for changes to the watch and any potential upgrades to a Freeze Warning.