Winter Storm Warning Issued for Western Siskiyou County; Up to Two Feet of Snow Possible

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Medford, Oregon, has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Western Siskiyou County. The alert is effective from 10:00 AM PST on Sunday, February 15, through 4:00 AM PST on Wednesday, February 18.

Affected Areas

The warning primarily impacts Western Siskiyou County at elevations above 5,000 feet through Monday morning, with the snow level lowering to 3,000 feet by Monday evening. Specific locations mentioned include Etna Summit on Sawyers Bar Road and Highway 3 south of Callahan. Additionally, light snow accumulations are possible in the Scott and Klamath River Valleys.

What You Should Do

Travel may be very difficult to impossible during this period. If you must travel, the National Weather Service advises keeping an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Residents and travelers should call 511 or visit quickmap.dot.ca.gov for the latest road information and conditions.

Expected Conditions

• Snow Accumulations: Heavy snow is expected above 5,000 feet through Monday morning with 8 to 12 inches of accumulation. Following a brief lull Monday afternoon, additional accumulations of 6 to 12 inches are expected, with total amounts of 1 to 2 feet possible above 5,000 feet.
• Snow Levels: Snow levels will begin at 5,000 feet on Sunday, lowering to 4,500 feet Sunday night and 4,000 feet on Monday. By Tuesday morning, snow levels may drop as low as 1,500 feet, potentially bringing 1 to 3 inches of snow to the Scott and Klamath River Valleys.
• Wind: Winds are forecast to gust as high as 40 mph over high and exposed terrain.
• Impacts: Hazardous conditions are expected to impact the Monday morning and evening commutes.

Timeline

• Onset: Sunday, February 15 at 10:00 AM PST.
• Duration: The warning remains in effect through Monday and Tuesday, eventually expiring at 4:00 AM PST on Wednesday, February 18.