A significant yet highly effective winter storm is set to have its impact on southern Oregon, with heavy snowfall and strong winds anticipated from Wednesday morning through Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, a Winter Storm Warning is in commencement from 7 a.m. to Wednesday to 4 p.m. Thursday for the South Central Oregon Cascades and the Siskiyou Mountains.
Forecasts indicate snow accumulations of 6 to 8 inches, with up to 12 inches near Crater Lake. Wind gusts could reach 45 mph, creating hazardous travel conditions.
The storm will have an effect on major highways, including Highway 140, situated near Lake of the Woods, Highway 62 toward Crater Lake, and Highway 138 and 232 near Diamond Lake. The heaviest yet highly effective snowfall is expected between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wednesday, with rates of over an inch per hour, potentially making it visibility only to a quarter mile.
Travelers should prepare for difficult driving conditions and possible road closures. Officials suggest that individuals bring flashlights, food, and water for emergency situations.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Make sure that your gas tank is filled full and stock up on winter essentials like a windshield washer, jumper cables, pliers, shovel, flashlight, cellphone, blanket, extra warm clothes, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food. Additionally, avoid using batteries or microwaves.
Stay Calm When Stranded
If you find yourself surrounded by people, stay calm. Share with someone how you are doing. Don’t try to walk towards safety.
Thursday and Friday, we will see travel disruptions caused by snow or wind. Snow is expected in the mountains until early next week, possibly lowland snow. However, it is not guaranteed to occur after Sunday. The progress will be gradual and noticeable by midweek.