Thunderstorms Possible Across Southern Oregon As Roseburg Stays Mostly Sunny

ROSEBURG, Ore. - Showers and thunderstorms are expected across parts of Southern Oregon and Northern California through Thursday, although Roseburg is forecast to remain mostly sunny Wednesday with only a slight chance of rain during the evening.

The National Weather Service in Medford said a low-pressure system settling over Northern California will create favorable conditions for thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon and evening. Storms could develop across much of the region, with the greatest instability expected from Siskiyou County north across the Cascades and into the Klamath Basin.

Any stronger storms could produce lightning, locally heavy rainfall and gusty, erratic winds exceeding 40 mph. Forecasters said storms may move slowly enough to produce meaningful rainfall, but lightning could still start fires in places that receive little rain. The greatest concern for new fire starts is in Northern California, particularly Siskiyou County, where vegetation remains comparatively dry.

The primary window for thunderstorm activity Wednesday is between 2 and 8 p.m. People with outdoor plans are encouraged to monitor changing conditions and seek shelter inside a substantial building or vehicle if thunder is heard or lightning is seen.

Roseburg’s detailed forecast calls for sunny skies Wednesday with a high near 80 degrees. North winds of 5 to 11 mph could gust as high as 18 mph. A 20 percent chance of showers is forecast between 8 and 11 p.m., followed by an overnight low near 53 degrees.

Additional showers and thunderstorms are possible Thursday, especially near and east of the Cascades and across Northern California. Some precipitation could also reach the west side, including eastern Douglas County, Jackson County, southeastern Josephine County and western Siskiyou County.

Roseburg is expected to see increasing clouds Thursday with a high near 81 degrees. Skies should gradually clear Thursday night as temperatures fall to around 52.

Drier weather will return Friday as temperatures move closer to normal. Roseburg is forecast to be sunny with a high near 80.

A warming trend is expected this weekend. Afternoon temperatures could reach the 80s and lower 90s in valleys west of the Cascades, while areas east of the Cascades are expected to reach the upper 70s and lower 80s. Dry conditions are likely to continue into early next week.