Snow, Gusty Winds Prompt Winter Weather Alerts Across Southern Oregon

MEDFORD, Ore. (Jan. 6, 2026) — The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for portions of Jackson County and continues a winter storm warning for the southern Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains as multiple rounds of snow are expected through Thursday morning.

The winter weather advisory is in effect from 1 p.m. Wednesday to 10 a.m. Thursday for areas of Jackson County above 2,000 feet. Forecasters say snow accumulations of up to 6 inches are possible, with snow levels starting near 3,000 feet Wednesday afternoon before dropping to around 2,000 feet by early evening and briefly falling as low as 1,800 feet early Thursday.

The advisory includes communities such as Prospect and Butte Falls, along with portions of highways 62, 227 and 238. Officials warn that travel could become difficult, particularly during the Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes.

Meanwhile, a winter storm warning remains in effect from 4 p.m. Tuesday through 10 a.m. Thursday for the southern Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains. Heavy snow is expected above 3,500 feet, with two main periods of accumulation.

From Tuesday evening into early Wednesday morning, forecasters expect 4 to 10 inches of snow, primarily from Highway 140 northward. After a brief lull Wednesday morning, another round of heavy snow is forecast from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday morning, bringing an additional 8 to 20 inches in the Cascades and 3 to 8 inches in the Siskiyou Mountains. Wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph over high and exposed terrain.

The warning covers areas including Diamond Lake, Crater Lake, Lake of the Woods and Siskiyou Summit, as well as highways 138, 230, 140, Highway 62 down to around Union Creek, Highway 66 and portions of Interstate 5.

Road closures are possible due to significant snow accumulation, and hazardous conditions could impact travel during the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches.

The National Weather Service advises motorists to slow down and use caution while traveling. Those who must drive are urged to carry emergency supplies, including a flashlight, food and water. Travelers can call 511 or visit tripcheck.com for the latest road conditions.