Flood Advisory issued January 19 at 1:03PM PST by NWS Medford
The National Weather Service in Medford has issued a
* Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory for…
Siskiyou County in northern California…
Douglas County in southwestern Oregon…
Curry County in southwestern Oregon…
Jackson County in southwestern Oregon…
Josephine County in southwestern Oregon…
Klamath County in south central Oregon…
Coos County in southwestern Oregon…
* Until 100 AM PST Sunday.
* At 1258 PM PST, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms. This will cause urban and small stream flooding in the advisory area. Numerous reports of water crossing roads are being reported across the region. Slow down and use great caution when driving.
* Some locations that will experience flooding include…
Medford, Grants Pass, Roseburg, Klamath Falls, Ashland, Coos Bay, Sutherlin, Yreka, Brookings, Reedsport, Mount Shasta, Cave Junction, Port Orford, Happy Camp, Crater Lake, Central Point, North Bend, Eagle Point, Talent and Winston.
An “unannounced” and under forecasted snow storm has blanketed Klamath Falls and the region today. The wet snow has covered area roadways resulting in several injury traffic accidents today, along with many vehicles in ditches and off the road.
Colder air has persisted in the local area today creating much more snow than was expected in the original forecast data.
The NWS in Medford says a warm front attached to an “Atmospheric River” type event has arrived in our area. The warm front will eventually mix warmer air into our area over the next few hours changing the snow over to rain. The snow we are now seeing should last only a few more hours. According to the NWS the snow is expected to be all rain by around 5pm tonight.
Additionally, Snow levels are expected to rapidly climb to 6,500 to 8,000 feet over the next few hours.
Significant rain is expected tonight into Saturday night as a warm front with a following cold front attached to an atmospheric river will stall over the region resulting in high amounts of rain. Flooding is expected in some areas of Siskiyou County and along the coast near Brookings.
Crater Lake is expected to receive over 3 inches of rain by Saturday night, and Klamath Falls is expected to receive about 0.61 inches.
More information will be updated as it becomes available.
The NWS in Medford says that our clear skies are coming to an end soon! A high pressure ridge that has given us clear skies the past few days will start to break down on Tuesday. This will clear the path for an active weather pattern to setup in our area.
As of posting time, snow (with minimal accumulation) and rain are expected Tuesday evening as a storm that is mostly aimed at Northern California will make it’s way through the region. Rain is likely for our area for Wednesday and Thursday as a stronger system enters the region.
The NWS says there is uncertainty about snow levels and precipitation amounts so stay tuned for more information as the storms begin to move through. And here’s hoping for an eventually big snow storm at some point this winter for Klamath Falls!
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.
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.
Storm #1 is expected along the northern California area early Saturday morning. This storm is forecast to bring strong winds to almost all of the local region by Saturday afternoon and into Saturday evening. Huge amounts of snow are expected down in Northern California and major travel disruptions expected along I-5 Saturday in the Mt. Shasta area.
This first storm is expected to push 50-55mph wind gusts for the local Klamath Falls area. Wind gusts of up to 68mph are possible at Crater Lake Saturday.
Storm #1 on Saturday is in the top 5% for wind field for this time of year. It is expected to be a wide spread wind storm over the region. Property damage and power outages are a concern.
Storm #2 on Sunday is expected to track a little farther north than Saturday’s storm so Klamath Falls and areas around Southern Oregon should see a little snow from the second storm. A weather forecaster in Medford told Klamath Alerts today that he expects to see roughly 1-2 inches of snow in Klamath Falls by the end of the weekend. Snow is expected mostly in the higher terrain around Klamath Falls and could impact travel on Highway 97 and Highway 140 in the high elevation areas beginning Saturday.
High Wind Watches and Warnings have been issued for our area this weekend. Additional storms are lined up over the Pacific and will begin to influence our area next week.
Storms are lined up across the Pacific Ocean, and the storm track will bring them right into the area this weekend and into next week. Say goodbye to the stale air, and hello to wind, rain & snow as the pattern turns more active from Friday night onward. If you have travel plans Saturday and/or Sunday, be prepared for difficult driving conditions due to heavy snow and strong winds. For more details, visit www.weather.gov/mfr
Weather Summary
A strong low pressure area will move in from the southwest Saturday. This will bring strong winds and heavy snow to parts of southern Oregon and northern California. The storm will peak Saturday afternoon and evening. Conditions will improve Saturday night, but another storm may move in Sunday.
Impacts
● Snow:
○ Travel delays and impacts on major highways such as Interstate 5.
○ Plows may not be able to keep up with the snow at times.
○ Power outages and downed trees possible.
● Strong winds:
○ Strong winds will make travel difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
○ Power outages and downed trees are possible with strong winds.
Forecast Confidence
● Moderate Rain confidence: High.
● Heavy Snow confidence: Moderate to high for snow affecting Interstate 5.
● Snow Level: Moderate confidence for exact snow levels. Lower snow levels, below 3000 feet may occur during periods of high snowfall rates
● Winds: High confidence Shasta Valley. Moderate to high confidence east of the Cascades. Moderate for the Rogue Valley and Siskiyous as to whether winds will reach warning level strength (warning threshold is gusts over 57 mph). Confidence is high that winds will reach at least Advisory level.
Timing and Strength
● Snow:
○ 8 to 10 inches Saturday through Saturday night in the Mount Shasta area as well as the ridges of Western Siskiyou County. 4 to 8 inches in the Cascades, and 2 to 4 inches over Siskiyou Summit on Interstate 5.
● Snow levels:
○ 2500 to 3000 feet in the Mount Shasta area. 2500 to 3000 feet initially over the remainder of the area, rising to 3000 to 4000 feet Saturday afternoon.
● Rain:
○ Around 1 inch over Western Siskiyou County and Curry County. Light to moderate rain over inland valleys in Southern Oregon.
● Winds:
○ Shasta Valley: South to southeast 30 to 45 mph with gusts to 65 mph possible. The strongest winds will occur near Weed Airport. Winds will increase Saturday morning, peak in the early afternoon, then diminish Saturday evening.
○ East of the Cascades: South winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts to 65 mph over the ridges. Winds will increase Saturday morning, peak mid-afternoon, then diminish Saturday Night.
○ Siskiyou Mountains, including Mount Ashland: Southeast to southwest winds 35 to 50 mph with gusts to 75 mph possible. Wind will increase Saturday morning, increase through the afternoon, and then diminish late in the evening.
○ Rogue Valley: Southeast to southwest winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 55 to 60 mph are possible.Winds will increase Saturday morning, peak in the afternoon or early evening, then diminish Saturday night.
Very cold temperatures are expected tonight into New Year’s morning with lows in the 20s to lower 30s west of the Cascades and into the single digits to teens on the East Side. A freeze warning is in effect for coastal areas in Coos and Douglas counties as well.
For areas west of the Cascades, These cold temperatures could damage sensitive plants if left outdoors or unprotected. Exposed pipes could freeze. Also icy spots may develop on roads especially over bridges and overpasses and in areas where snow melt occurs on roads then refreezes at night. As far as people and pets are concerned, hypothermia can set in quickly in the cold temperatures. It is best to bring pets inside if possible. Remember, if it is too cold for you, it is too cold for them. In addition, with cold temperatures in the mornings, do not leave cars to warm-up unattended.
More information about cold safety can be found on www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
Hopes of a big snow storm in town are starting to diminish. The low pressure system that was expected to deliver a snow storm for Klamath Falls has arrived about 3 hours earlier than expected. Because it is arriving during higher daytime temperatures, we will likely see much less snow than originally thought (if any) locally.
Additionally, so far it appears snow levels have also stayed higher than originally thought. A check of area road cams shows a slushy mess right now at the higher elevations.
One thing to watch out for later tonight is black ice. The low temperature is currently expected to get around 26F tonight in the local area. The roadways are wet and slushy, and it’s possible we may see areas of rain and snow showers through this evening. Roads could become very slick quickly later tonight. When conditions like this exist, it’s possible you could be driving on wet roads and suddenly encounter black ice with no warning. Expect the unexpected later tonight as the sun goes down and stay on the safe side by driving slower and allowing more following distance.
If you have been wishing or praying for a white Christmas locally, you just might see one this year. Klamath Alerts has been following forecast information this past week and we have just learned that the latest forecast data indicates a probability of a significant Christmas Eve snow storm for Klamath Falls, Alturas, and Lakeview.
Several winter storms are in the forecast for the region mainly dumping snow at 4,500 feet and above in the mountains. The first storm will transit the area starting tonight. This storm will mainly impact the mountains with periods of snow.
An additional and stronger storm is currently forecast to arrive in our area on Monday (Christmas Eve). The current data shows 3-5 inches of snow at 4,000 feet and above for Klamath Falls, Alturas, and Lakeview. We will post additional information if it becomes available.
From the NWS Medford:
Stormy Weather through Christmas Eve
Expected Impacts:
Snow:
The heaviest snow accumulations will occur on the Cascade passes from Highway 140 northward, including Crater Lake and Diamond Lake. Significant snow is forecast on Highway 97 between Chiloquin and Crescent, including Chemult. Expect wintry travel conditions mainly above 4500 feet. Significant snow may occur on Monday east of the Cascades impacting the cities of Klamath Falls, Lakeview, and Alturas. Snow levels may begin around 4500 feet Monday afternoon and then lower to near 4000 feet. Siskiyou Summit on I-5 could see a few inches of snow on Monday.
Forecast Confidence
Snow: Moderate confidence for amounts above 4500 feet. Snow: Low to moderate confidence for amounts in Klamath Falls, Lakeview, and Alturas due to borderline snow levels
Snow:
12 to 18 inches of snow is expected through Christmas Eve for the high passes from Highway 140 northward. From Chiloquin to Chemult and Crescent there could be 6 to 10 inches through Christmas Eve.
Snow levels:
Snow levels will mainly range between 4500 and 5000 feet and then lower to around 4000 feet on Monday afternoon or evening.
Weather Summary
A series of winter storms will impact the region through Christmas Eve. Wintry driving conditions are expected on many of the high passes in southern Oregon and northern California. East of the Cascades, the greatest chance for significant snow will be Monday
Various winter weather advisories are in effect through Christmas Eve.
Storms continue to lineup over the Pacific and the next rain storm is inbound at the coast as of time of this post. According to the NWS in Medford we should start to see increasing rain develop in our area this evening and into the overnight hours. Snow levels remain high and are forecast to increase to around 5500 to 6000 feet as this storm moves over the area. We should see rain into Tuesday as the storm passes over us.
The storm inbound now has an atmospheric river attached to it and will cause heavy rain in the Portland and southern Washington region and at the coast. There is possible flash flooding in burn scar areas. If you are traveling to the Portland area tonight or tomorrow check the weather forecast and be ready for periods of very heavy rain and limited visibilities.
The NWS says dangerous conditions will continue at the Oregon coast with large waves and possible sneaker waves.
The next storm is already just off the Oregon coast and will begin to stir up winds for us late tonight into Sunday. Right now the latest data from the NWS says the winds will not be quite as strong as yesterday’s storm. However, there is uncertainty in this data and it’s possible some areas will see some substantial winds again.
This storm is moving slower than yesterday’s so it’s possible we will see more precipitation. Snow levels are unusually high with this incoming storm at 6 to 7,000 feet. So this will be another wind and rain event for us.
The storms that are lined up over the Pacific are creating very dangerous conditions along the Oregon Coast. If you know if anyone traveling there, please share this info with them. Conditions are right for dangerous sneaker waves that can suddenly wash onto dry areas of the beach and even into parking lots.
From the NWS in Medford:
Update: A high surf advisory with breakers up to 25 feet is in effect through Saturday night, then a high surf warning with breakers over 30 feet goes into effect Sunday and Monday. These waves can sweep people from jetties or other exposed rocks and move logs of any size and create a trapping or crushing hazard to anyone nearby at any time. However, by Sunday, conditions will become extremely dangerous. These waves will be the highest we’ve seen this season by far, and they will be capable of washing over entire beaches and may even run up into adjacent low lying parking lots or roadways. Conditions can change suddenly and catch people off guard. The safest course of action is to stay away from the beach, but if you must venture out, do so only with extreme caution, and never turn your back on the ocean. For more information on area watches and warnings, visit weather.gov/medford.
A strong frontal system will bring breezy to windy conditions to much of the area Friday. High wind watches are in effect for the coast, Shasta Valley, and portions of the east side. For more details, visit weather.gov/medford
Snow storm and winter travel conditions Friday into Saturday.
A snow storm is forecast to begin affecting our area Friday. Snow is expected in the mountains around the Klamath Basin beginning Friday afternoon, and is forecast to develop in the Klamath Falls local area in the evening hours of Friday night. The bulk of the snow should arrive in the late evening hours of Friday into early Saturday morning. Roughly 2-4 inches of snow are expected in Klamath Falls.
Snow levels will drop to around 2,600 feet in elevation overnight Friday. The storm is expected to affect highway travel conditions all around our region from South of Bend, Oregon to down into northern California.
Cold night temperatures expected Sunday night as the storm leaves our area. Some areas north of Klamath Falls could see single digit or near zero. Lows in the teens expected for Klamath Falls area Sunday night.
Multiple Winter Storm Warnings Issued:
Winter Storm Warning issued November 29 at 3:46PM PST until December 01 at 4:00PM PST by NWS Medford
…Heavy snow expected above 2500 feet Friday night through Saturday…
Friday evening through Saturday a strong cold front and associated area of cold low pressure will move in from the northwest bringing periods of heavy snowfall with lower snow levels across portions of southwest Oregon and northern California. Snow levels could drop briefly below 2500 feet in heavier showers.
…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 4 PM PST SATURDAY…
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 4 PM PST SATURDAY…
* WHAT… Snow expected, heavy in places. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches, with localized amounts up to 11 inches, in the warning area are expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, with localized amounts up to 6 inches, in the advisory area are expected.
* WHERE… In California, North Central and Southeast Siskiyou County and Modoc County. In Oregon, Klamath Basin, Northern and Eastern Klamath County and Western Lake County and Central and Eastern Lake County. Highways 97, 140, 139, 395 and other area roads will be affected. Highest snow amounts will be on highway 97 near Chemult, 140 near Bly and Cedar Pass.
* WHEN… From 4 PM Friday to 4 PM PST Saturday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS… Plan on difficult travel conditions. Be prepared for significant reductions in visibility at times. Snow will initially fall on just above freezing road temperatures that will cool below freezing, making roads possibly covered in ice in places.
* Travel is strongly discouraged because of dangerous conditions. * If you must travel, keep tire chains, a flashlight, blankets, food, water, medications, and a fully charged phone with you. * The safest place during a winter storm is indoors. * A Winter Storm Warning means that severe winter weather is likely, and poses a threat to life and property. Take protective action now.
Winter Weather Advisory issued November 29 at 3:46PM PST until December 01 at 4:00PM PST by NWS Medford
…Heavy snow expected above 2500 feet Friday night through Saturday…
Friday evening through Saturday a strong cold front and associated area of cold low pressure will move in from the northwest bringing periods of heavy snowfall with lower snow levels across portions of southwest Oregon and northern California. Snow levels could drop briefly below 2500 feet in heavier showers.
…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 4 PM PST SATURDAY…
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 4 PM PST SATURDAY…
* WHAT… Snow expected, heavy in places. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches, with localized amounts up to 11 inches, in the warning area are expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, with localized amounts up to 6 inches, in the advisory area are expected.
* WHERE… In California, North Central and Southeast Siskiyou County and Modoc County. In Oregon, Klamath Basin, Northern and Eastern Klamath County and Western Lake County and Central and Eastern Lake County. Highways 97, 140, 139, 395 and other area roads will be affected. Highest snow amounts will be on highway 97 near Chemult, 140 near Bly and Cedar Pass.
* WHEN… From 4 PM Friday to 4 PM PST Saturday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS… Plan on difficult travel conditions. Be prepared for significant reductions in visibility at times. Snow will initially fall on just above freezing road temperatures that will cool below freezing, making roads possibly covered in ice in places.
* Travel is strongly discouraged because of dangerous conditions. * If you must travel, keep tire chains, a flashlight, blankets, food, water, medications, and a fully charged phone with you. * The safest place during a winter storm is indoors. * A Winter Storm Warning means that severe winter weather is likely, and poses a threat to life and property. Take protective action now.
Weather Outlook: We have another strong storm on the way in for Tuesday. Monday will be a transition day back over to an active storm pattern. A strong storm will move through our area on Tuesday and will give us some gusty winds and lots of rain. According to the current model runs we could see around 0.30 inches to a half inch of rain here in the Klamath Falls area Tuesday into Wednesday. Snow levels around 7,000 feet for this storm. More storms are lined up behind this one as well.
Above graphic from NWS Medford
From the NWS Medford:
A strong frontal system will move through the area Monday afternoon through Tuesday evening. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected at the coast, along with dangerous high surf conditions. Inland, expect widespread moderate to heavy rain, with gusty winds in the Shasta Valley and across the East Side. Passes should remain clear, with snow levels generally remaining above 6000 feet, but wet roads and gusty winds could result in hazardous driving conditions. Use extra caution, slow down, and take extra time when driving. If going to the coast, keep off of jetties, logs, and rocks, and stay away from the dangerous surf zone.
