Winter Storm Warning Remains In Effect Until 5 PM Thursday For Higher Elevations In Douglas County And Southern Oregon Cascades

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 p.m. Thursday for parts of eastern Douglas County and the southern Oregon Cascades, where more snow and strong winds are expected through the day.

According to the National Weather Service in Medford, periods of snow will continue across the region, with additional accumulations of 2 to 5 inches. Areas around Crater Lake National Park could see locally up to 8 inches. Winds may gust as high as 45 mph over higher and exposed terrain.

The warning covers the eastern Douglas County foothills, the south-central Oregon Cascades, and the Siskiyou Mountains and southern Oregon Cascades. Locations named in the alert include Crater Lake, Crescent Lake, Union Creek, Diamond Lake and Toketee Falls.

Forecasters said travel may be very difficult, especially during the Thursday morning commute. Gusty winds could also bring down tree branches.

The warning includes passes along highways 140, 62, 138, 230 and 58, mainly above 3,000 feet.

Drivers are encouraged to carry an emergency kit with extra food, water and a flashlight if travel is necessary. Road conditions are available by calling 511 or visiting TripCheck.