Winter Weather Advisory, Storm Warning issued for Douglas County as snow levels drop this week
A Winter Weather Advisory and Winter Storm Warning are in effect for central Douglas County from late Monday through Thursday. Valley areas including Roseburg could see light snow, while higher elevations may get heavy accumulations. Travel impacts are likely, especially Tuesday.
A prolonged stretch of cold weather and multiple rounds of precipitation are expected to bring low elevation snow to central Douglas County starting late Monday, according to the National Weather Service in Medford.
Forecasters say a sharp cold front will move through Monday night into early Tuesday, sending snow levels rapidly downward. Snow levels are expected to fall from around 3,000 feet Monday afternoon to roughly 1,000 to 1,500 feet overnight, creating the potential for snow in valley locations including Roseburg, Sutherlin and Canyonville.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for areas below 1,500 feet from 10 p.m. Monday through 10 a.m. Thursday. Above 1,500 feet, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the same time period.
The system is expected to linger for several days, with periods of precipitation continuing through Thursday. Snow levels may rise slightly during daylight hours, then drop again overnight. The best chances for valley floor accumulation will be late at night and early in the morning.
What to know
• Timing: 10 p.m. Monday through 10 a.m. Thursday
• Valley areas below 1,500 ft: 0.5 to 2 inches of wet snow possible
• Camas Valley: 4 to 6 inches possible
• Above 1,500 ft: 6 to 10 inches expected
• Above 2,500 ft: 12 to 18 inches possible
• Heaviest snow: Late Monday night into Tuesday morning
• Roads impacted: I-5 including Roberts Mountain Pass and Canyon Creek Pass, plus Highways 42 and 130
• Commute concerns: Tuesday morning and evening travel may be affected
The National Weather Service says travel could become difficult or even impossible at times, particularly in higher elevations and during heavier bursts of snow. Officials urge drivers to slow down, use caution and check road conditions before heading out.
Road information is available by calling 511 or visiting TripCheck. Drivers are also encouraged to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles in case of delays.
Forecasters will continue monitoring the storm as it moves through the region.
Comments ()