Winter Storm Watch Issued For Cascades, Eastern Douglas County Foothills

A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late Tuesday night through Thursday afternoon for parts of the southern Oregon Cascades and eastern Douglas County foothills, according to the National Weather Service in Medford.

Forecasters said heavy snow is possible across higher elevations, with total accumulations of 10 to 20 inches possible. Wind gusts could also reach as high as 40 mph over high and exposed terrain.

The watch includes the southern Oregon Cascades north of Howard Prairie Lake and the eastern Douglas County foothills above 3,000 feet, including passes along highways 140, 62, 138, 230 and 58. Areas named in the alert include Toketee Falls, Union Creek, Crescent Lake, Diamond Lake and Crater Lake.

The National Weather Service said travel may become very difficult to impossible, with hazardous conditions potentially affecting both the Wednesday morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds could also bring down tree branches.

Residents and travelers are urged to monitor the latest forecasts for updates as the storm system approaches.