ODOT: SW Oregon winter driving conditions
Drivers should expect winter driving conditions this weekend throughout Southern Oregon on I-5 and throughout Cascade and coastal mountain passes.
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Category Archives: Klamath Falls Breaking Weather Alerts
Weather Outlook: Multiple Cold Snow Storms Inbound. Extended Period Of Snow Possible
Snow, Snow, and More Snow!
Multiple cold and wet weather systems are expected to impact our area beginning late tonight. The weather systems have the moisture and cold air to essentially turn on the “snow machine” over much of our region.
Above: Most of Oregon is currently under a winter storm watch or warning tonight
At the time of this post, nearly all of Oregon is under some sort of a winter weather advisory or warning. We reported earlier today on Pacific Power offering tips to prepare for the incoming snow storms.
Snow should begin overnight tonight and the heaviest snow for our area is expected Saturday morning into the afternoon. Here is the projected snowfall amounts for the Saturday storm.
Snow and Ice on major highways and roads:
Roads above 2000 feet beginning tonight.
– Roads above 1000 feet beginning Saturday morning.
– Down to 500 feet or lower by Sunday morning.
• Coastal areas may see periods of snow down to the beaches, but the heaviest accumulations will be above 500 feet.
• Heaviest widespread snow Saturday morning into Saturday evening, then showers Saturday night into Sunday morning.
• Any snow that melts on roads during the day will likely refreeze at night, resulting in icy roads.
Snow Showers are expected to continue after the Saturday storm and here is the current thinking on snow amounts for Sunday into Monday.
The farther into the future we go the NWS has less confidence on snowfall amounts. However, the current forecast amounts follow for Monday-Wednesday here.
If the current forecast models are correct, it is very possible we will see on and off snow from tonight into next weekend. Looking at the totals in the higher elevations, we should make up some ground this week on our snow pack for sure.
According to the NWS some areas of our region may see more snow in a four day period than has been seen (in a four day period) in the past 50 years.
At the very least here are a few things to be prepared for:
- Widespread snow throughout the region with snow covered roads and ice.
- A decrease in emergency crew response time as they will likely be very busy and have slower response times due to road conditions.
- POSSIBLE power outages in some areas
- Winds up to 30mph in some areas blowing and drifting snow and possible white out conditions.
- An extended period of accumulating snow.
As always, Klamath Alerts will continue to monitor the incoming storms and update as more information becomes available. Graphics are provided by NWS Medford.
Arctic Front Approaching Area Tonight And Winter Storm Update
An arctic cold front is approaching the area and region now. Snow levels are already reported down to near sea level in the Seattle, WA area at time of this posting. The approaching storm has origins in western Canada and is bringing very cold air with it.
The NWS says that exact snow amounts are difficult to predict with these types of storms because the precipitation is showery and terrain can enhance the snowfall amounts in some areas, while leaving other areas a short distance away with little or no snow.
The latest information from the NWS suggests that Klamath Falls will see roughly 5 inches if snow in most areas from this storm. Expect widespread winter driving conditions and very cold weather behind this storm. Highs for the next couple of days are only forecast near freezing. Depending on clearing Tuesday we could be looking at low temperatures in the single digits for our area.
Dangerous Travel Conditions Expected Tonight And Monday:
Because of the extended shower activity and cold air, any melting snow during the day Monday will rapidly convert to ice Monday evening.
Widespread travel impacts for most highways and area roads due to snow:
○ Roads above 2000 feet this evening.
○ Roads above 1000 feet tonight.
○ Roads down to 500 feet by Monday morning.
○ Coastal areas may see periods of snow down to the beaches but expect only brief and light snow on roads.
● Snow is possible all the way down to 500 feet Monday morning.
● Heaviest snow expected tonight into Monday morning then scattered to numerous light to moderate showers into Monday evening.
● Below freezing temperatures across southern Oregon and northern California Tuesday morning. (Teens east of the cascades, 20s west of the Cascades) Could be near freezing at the coast.
● Any snow that melts on roads during the day Monday will likely refreeze Monday night, resulting in icy roads.
*Travel is strongly discouraged during a winter storm because conditions could become dangerous.
*If you must travel tomorrow, especially over the passes, be sure to take an emergency supply kit containing food, water, medications, blankets, flashlight with batteries, and a fully charged phone with phone charger with you.
*Check road conditions before you go. Check www.tripcheck.com for
Storm Update: Snow expected to diminish with partial clearing tonight and icy roads.
Storm Update 1/6/19 4:53pm
The NWS Medford says that snow showers will begin to diminish later this evening and partial clearing will occur. As skies begin to clear, temperatures will drop and slushy and snowy roads will turn to ice. A forecasted low of 24 tonight for the local Klamath Falls area will provide very icy conditions well into Monday morning.
The concern with icy roads also includes some areas west of the Cascades in the lower valleys for those of you who may be traveling that way tomorrow. Tripcheck.com and The NWS have updates regarding these and other warnings.
Klamath Alerts has been tracking multiple slide offs and injury accidents in Klamath County this afternoon on Highway 97, Highway 58, Highway 140 East, and other areas.
Please use extreme caution while driving tonight and into the morning hours. Plan on a slippery morning commute and consider leaving yourself extra time in the morning so you don’t feel rushed to your destination.
As always our live alerts and updates are available on our breaking news service.
Winter Weather Advisory issued January 06 at 2:19PM PST until January 07 at 9:00AM PST by NWS Medford
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 AM PST MONDAY…
* WHAT… Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches, with localized amounts up to 9 inches are expected.
* WHERE… Most of Klamath County and Western and southern Lake County. This includes Davis Creek, Willow Ranch, Highway 395 from Davis Creek north, Highway 395 between Lakeview and Valley Falls, highway 140 east of Dairy northwest of Klamath Falls and highway 97 north of Modoc Point.
* WHEN… Until 9 AM PST Monday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS… Plan on difficult travel conditions. Windy conditions will accompany the snow at times over the high terrain, and damage to trees is possible. Snow covered roads and significant reductions in visibility are expected. Snow will decrease later this evening, but roads will remain snow covered and icy into Monday morning.
* View the hazard area in detail at https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/mfr/HAZARD
* Slow down and allow extra time to reach your destination.
* Carry tire chains and be prepared for snow covered roads and limited visibilities.
* See https://www.tripcheck.com or http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov for latest road conditions.
* A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means that periods of snow will cause travel difficulties.
Local Students Nominated for US Military Academies
Two seniors from Mazama High School and one senior from Lost River Junior-Senior High School were among 10 Oregon students nominated by U.S. Rep. Greg Walden for acceptance to prestigious U.S. military service academies. Read more
Traffic Alert: Icy conditions on Crescent Cutoff Road
Very icy conditions are reported on Crescent Cutoff Road. There have been two roll over traffic accidents on that highway this afternoon. One was at mile post 6 and the other more recent MVA was at milepost 8. Please use caution if you plan on driving in that area this afternoon or evening. A sand truck has been requested for the area but there is no ETA of when the sand might be put down.
Police Officer Opening: City of Klamath Falls finest now hiring.
The city of Klamath Falls is looking for a new police officer. Applications are being accepted until November 27th, 2018 at 5pm.
The City of Klamath Falls Police Department is accepting applications for Police Officer. This position is responsible for patrol and investigative law enforcement activities. Salary of $4,684-$5,749 per month DOE with additional incentive packages up to 12% of base salary plus an excellent benefits package and a professional work environment, making this position extremely competitive.
Required: Be a citizen of the United States or a nonimmigrant legally admitted to the United States under a Compact of Free Association within 18 months of hire date, minimum 21 years of age, high school diploma or GED, and a valid driver license. A Bachelor’s Degree, law enforcement experience and/or military experience is preferred but not required. Reserve or lateral transfer preferred. Job offers for this position are contingent on the individual passing a pre-employment drug screen, background investigation, psychological exam, DPSST fitness and written tests. Signing bonus of up to $1,000 upon successful completing of testing and training.
Visit www.klamathfalls.city for full job description, application, and important information about the testing process. Applications must be submitted to the City of Klamath Falls Human Resources and may be submitted one of the following ways: Hand deliver to 226 S. 5th Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601; Mail to PO Box 237, Klamath Falls, OR 97601; email: tthompson@klamathfalls,city; or fax to (541) 883-5395.
The deadline to apply is November 27, 2018 at 5:00pm. We DO NOT accept applications through Facebook.
2501 Shasta Way
Weather Outlook: Widespread Thunderstorms Possible Today
Weather Outlook for July 15th, 2018 – Thunderstorms
Heat, monsoon moisture, and atmospheric instability will favor widespread thunderstorm development over our region today. Based on forecasts from the NWS the storms should start to fire around 2pm today.
Dry conditions on the ground with gusty winds near thunderstorms could create dangerous conditions for new fire starts. Fire crews are watching this close. A red flag warning is also in effect today over the region for dangerous fire conditions.
If you are outdoors today keep in mind new fires can start and spread quickly with the current conditions we have. We should see widespread thunderstorm activity this afternoon over Northern California and Southern Oregon. The activity will mostly be east of the Cascades according to current forecasts.
by Klamath Alerts
Winter Weather Impacts Spring Break Travel in our Region
A series of storms is expected to impact our region beginning tonight. Up to 2 feet of snow is expected at Crater Lake and 17″ at Lake of Woods. The National Weather Service is advising people to use caution if traveling in the region during this time. A ridge of high pressure is expected to develop by Monday bringing in much nicer weather for spring break.
A winter storm warning has just been issued for our region.
From the NWS Medford:
Moderate to heavy snow will impact southern Oregon and northern California tonight into Friday. Snow will be wet and heavy and could cause tree limbs/branches to break. Power outages are possible. Heaviest snow will fall in the mountains above 2000 feet, and could fall in the valleys on Friday night. Be prepared for snow-covered and slippery roads and reduced visibility. Roads affected will be I-5, US Highway 97, US Highway 395, Highway 3, Highway 62, Highway 140, and more.
This will create very hazardous travel with slippery, snow covered roads, and periods of poor visibility due to moderate to heavy snow.
If you must travel, carry emergency kit with chains, flashlight, batteries, blankets, food, water, and medications. Be prepared for wintry travel conditions and be sure to check road conditions before venturing out.
You can call 511 for Oregon or California road conditions (while you’re in either state), or visit their websites listed below.
Oregon road conditions: www.tripcheck.com
California road conditions: http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/
NWS hazard viewer: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/map/?wfo=mfr
Press Release from NWS Medford. Images provided by same.
Weather Alert – Snow Storm
From The NWS in Medford, OR
Winter Weather Advisory
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Medford OR
406 PM PST Sat Feb 24 2018
…Strong Winter Storm Expected above 2000 feet Sunday through
Sunday Night…
Another winter storm will move into southwestern Oregon and
northern California Sunday. Snow levels will begin near 1000 feet
with some areas of light precipitation over northern portions of
the forecast area Sunday morning. However, snow levels will then
rise during the day on Sunday to between 2500 and 3500 feet as
precipitation increases and moves southeastward. Sunday evening
and night potential impacts from snow and blowing snow are likely
to increase as colder air arrives and snow levels lower to near
1000 feet.
ORZ029-251500-
/O.EXP.KMFR.WW.Y.0011.000000T0000Z-180225T0000Z/
/O.UPG.KMFR.WS.A.0005.180225T1800Z-180226T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KMFR.WW.Y.0012.180226T0000Z-180226T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KMFR.WS.W.0008.180226T0000Z-180226T1200Z/
Klamath Basin-
Including the cities of Altamont and Klamath Falls
406 PM PST Sat Feb 24 2018
…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM SUNDAY TO 4 AM PST
MONDAY…
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM SUNDAY TO 4 AM PST
MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy snow is expected north and west of Klamath Falls
with moderate snow elsewhere, to include Klamath Falls. Total
snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected in the warning
area. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected in
the advisory area.
* WHERE…Klamath Basin. Klamath Falls and areas south and east
are in the advisory area. Keno, Modoc Point, and Chiloquin are
in the winter storm warning area.
* WHEN…From 4 PM Sunday to 4 AM PST Monday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Plan on difficult travel conditions. Be
prepared for significant reductions in visibility.
* View the hazard area in detail at
https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/mfr/HAZARD
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
* Travel is strongly discouraged for those who are inadequately
prepared, especially in the warning area.
* If you must travel, keep tire chains, a flashlight, blankets,
food, water, medications, and a fully charged phone with you.
* A Winter Storm Warning means that severe winter weather is
likely and is expected to pose a threat to life and property.
Take protective action now.
Winter Storm Warning
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Medford OR
406 PM PST Sat Feb 24 2018
…Strong Winter Storm Expected above 2000 feet Sunday through
Sunday Night…
.Another winter storm will move into southwestern Oregon and
northern California Sunday. Snow levels will begin near 1000 feet
with some areas of light precipitation over northern portions of
the forecast area Sunday morning. However, snow levels will then
rise during the day on Sunday to between 2500 and 3500 feet as
precipitation increases and moves southeastward. Sunday evening
and night potential impacts from snow and blowing snow are likely
to increase as colder air arrives and snow levels lower to near
1000 feet.
ORZ029-251500-
/O.EXP.KMFR.WW.Y.0011.000000T0000Z-180225T0000Z/
/O.UPG.KMFR.WS.A.0005.180225T1800Z-180226T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KMFR.WW.Y.0012.180226T0000Z-180226T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KMFR.WS.W.0008.180226T0000Z-180226T1200Z/
Klamath Basin-
Including the cities of Altamont and Klamath Falls
406 PM PST Sat Feb 24 2018
…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM SUNDAY TO 4 AM PST
MONDAY…
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM SUNDAY TO 4 AM PST
MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy snow is expected north and west of Klamath Falls
with moderate snow elsewhere, to include Klamath Falls. Total
snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected in the warning
area. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected in
the advisory area.
* WHERE…Klamath Basin. Klamath Falls and areas south and east
are in the advisory area. Keno, Modoc Point, and Chiloquin are
in the winter storm warning area.
* WHEN…From 4 PM Sunday to 4 AM PST Monday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Plan on difficult travel conditions. Be
prepared for significant reductions in visibility.
* View the hazard area in detail at
https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/mfr/HAZARD
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
* Travel is strongly discouraged for those who are inadequately
prepared, especially in the warning area.
* If you must travel, keep tire chains, a flashlight, blankets,
food, water, medications, and a fully charged phone with you.
* A Winter Storm Warning means that severe winter weather is
likely and is expected to pose a threat to life and property.
Take protective action now.
Winter Weather Alert – I-5 Corridor
Winter Weather Alert! 2-20-18
Portland to Eugene, Coast to Gorge
A winter storm will spread from the north to south tonight and tomorrow. It will create dangerous conditions along the I-5 corridor from Portland to Eugene (and a little south of there). It will also impact a large area from the coast to the Gorge. The system is forecast to loose moisture by the time it arrives in the Southern Oregon area. The Klamath Falls area may see a small amount of snow out of this system.
