Southern Oregon residents are being urged to remain alert this week as a Winter Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory remain in effect across portions of Josephine and eastern Curry counties. The current alert, issued by the National Weather Service, runs through 10:00 a.m. Thursday and covers both lower elevations and higher terrain, with varying impacts depending on elevation.
Communities below 1,500 feet, including Grants Pass, Wilderville, Merlin, Galice and Agness, are under a Winter Weather Advisory. Forecasters are calling for wet snow accumulations ranging from two to four inches in these lower elevations. While that amount may not seem extreme, even a few inches of snow in the Rogue and Illinois valleys can create hazardous road conditions, particularly during overnight and early morning hours when temperatures dip to or below freezing.
Above 1,500 feet, a Winter Storm Warning is in place, signaling more significant impacts. Mountain communities such as Cave Junction, O’Brien, Selma and Wolf Creek are expected to see heavier snowfall totals ranging from four to eight inches in some passes, and between six and twelve inches in parts of the southern Illinois Valley. The Kalmiopsis Wilderness region could receive up to two feet of snow. Mountain passes including Sexton Pass, Smith Hill and Stage Pass on Interstate 5, along with Hayes Hill on Highway 199 and Bear Camp Road, are expected to be especially difficult, and at times dangerous, for travel.
Forecasters indicate that occasional snow showers will continue through Wednesday, with additional accumulations possible Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Travel conditions may deteriorate rapidly in heavier bursts of snowfall, especially during the evening commute and early morning hours. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time, carry chains where required, and prepare for sudden changes in visibility and traction.
Temperatures throughout the week are expected to remain chilly, with daytime highs generally in the mid to upper 40s and nighttime lows hovering near or below freezing. That combination increases the likelihood of refreezing overnight, creating slick spots even after precipitation tapers off.
While valley residents may see a transition between snow and rain at times, higher elevations are likely to remain predominantly snow. This elevation-dependent pattern is typical for southern Oregon storms but can catch motorists off guard when traveling between communities at different altitudes within a short distance.
Officials recommend that residents monitor local forecasts closely and check road conditions before traveling. Those who must drive in affected areas should keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, including extra food, water, blankets and a flashlight. Updated road information is available through Oregon’s 511 system and TripCheck.
Southern Oregon is no stranger to winter weather, but this system carries the potential for disruptive travel and localized impacts. With snow forecast in both valley floors and mountain corridors, residents are encouraged to stay informed and remain prepared as the storm progresses through midweek.