Active weather will continue across southern Oregon and northern California until Friday, bringing gusty winds, heavy rain, and accumulating mountain snow that may disrupt travel and outdoor plans during the holiday week.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, strong, gusty south winds will blow Tuesday and Wednesday, particularly early Wednesday, combined with rain in valleys and snow in the mountains. Snow levels are forecast to stay quite high, ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet, with 5 to 12 inches of new snow likely in the Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains’ upper altitudes.
More substantial consequences are likely from Wednesday night to Friday when a bigger system sweeps across the region. According to forecasters, this phase will bring moderate to severe rain, significant mountain snow, and continuing high winds. Snow levels are expected to decrease to around 5,000 feet Wednesday night and then to near 4,000 feet Thursday night and Friday, increasing the chance of snow-covered roadways in mountain passes and parts of the Mount Shasta region.
The strongest precipitation is forecast in northern California, with considerable snowfall over 4,500 feet, while southern Oregon may have hazardous travel conditions owing to wind and snow in higher elevations. Strong south winds may affect the shoreline, Shasta Valley, mountain ridges, and east side, making driving conditions difficult for high-profile cars.
Looking ahead, Friday night and early next week are predicted to be colder and drier, with lingering light snow showers above 4,000 feet clearing by Friday night. Cold evenings, patchy fog, and low morning clouds are anticipated this weekend, particularly in the west-side valleys.
Travelers are advised to check road conditions with ODOT and Caltrans, bring winter supplies if driving through mountainous areas, and follow forecast updates as conditions change.
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