MEDFORD, Ore. (Dec. 18, 2025) — Forecasters are warning of a brief but potentially hazardous window of freezing rain early Wednesday in parts of southern Oregon, followed by several days of rain, mountain snow and strong winds as a series of Pacific systems moves through the region ahead of the Christmas holiday.
A low-probability but notable risk of freezing rain or drizzle is expected between now and about 8 a.m. along Highway 138 between Diamond Lake and U.S. Highway 97, as well as on Highway 97 north of Highway 138 in Klamath County. Meteorologists say there is a 10 to 20 percent chance of very light ice accumulation — around one to two hundredths of an inch — which could create hazardous driving conditions during the morning commute.
Surface temperatures are expected to rise above freezing by late morning, limiting the duration of the threat. Still, officials emphasized the risk given increased holiday travel and the potential for icy roads in the affected areas.
Beyond the early icing concern, the region is expected to see moderate impacts through Friday night as persistent troughing over the Gulf of Alaska continues to send waves of moisture inland. Snow is forecast mainly at higher elevations, with the heaviest snowfall expected Friday into Friday night as snow levels drop to around 3,500 to 4,000 feet. Accumulations are expected to remain light, and forecasters do not anticipate winter weather advisories or warnings.
Rainfall will be more significant, particularly west of the Cascades. Moderate to heavy rain is expected along the coast, the Coast Range and the Cascades, with the heaviest precipitation falling from Thursday night through Friday afternoon. While widespread flooding is not expected because rivers are currently running low, isolated issues are possible.
The South Fork of the Coquille River at Myrtle Point is forecast to reach minor flood stage Friday night, around 10 p.m. Powers, also along the South Fork Coquille River, could reach action stage, below minor flood levels. Forecasters noted that rivers may respond slowly, meaning some rises could occur after the heaviest rainfall has ended.
Strong winds are also expected, especially in coastal and eastside areas. Gusts of 30 to 35 mph are possible in some inland locations, including around Klamath Falls, with higher winds along the coast and offshore waters.
Rain chances ease somewhat late Friday night, but another round of moderate rainfall is expected Sunday into Monday, mainly affecting coastal areas, northern California and eastside locations. Light snow during that period is expected to remain confined to elevations above about 4,500 feet.
Looking ahead to Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, forecasters say confidence is increasing in a more impactful system for northern California as a stronger upper-level low develops offshore. That system could bring heavy rain and potential travel concerns, along with heavier snow for Mount Shasta and western Siskiyou County. Snow levels are currently projected to hover around 4,500 feet, which may limit lower-elevation snow impacts, though officials cautioned the forecast could change.
Aviation impacts are also expected, with strong winds, low-level wind shear and fluctuating ceilings along the coast and in inland valleys. Conditions are forecast to range between visual and instrument flight rules at times, particularly overnight and into Thursday morning.
Forecasters say a broader pattern change could develop by the middle of next week, potentially altering precipitation and wind trends as the holiday period continues.
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