Medford, OR — A new Pacific system is set to change the weather pattern across southern Oregon heading into the weekend, bringing heavy rain, high snow levels, and blustery mountain winds from late Thursday through Saturday, according to the National Weather Service in Medford.
Warming Front Set to Shift Conditions Across the Region
A warm front moving across southern Oregon will usher in widespread rainfall and elevated snow levels, creating a milder but active weather pattern to close out the week. The National Weather Service reports that this system will deliver “beneficial rainfall” across the region, with totals ranging from 0.25 inches to over 1 inch, depending on where the heaviest bands track.
Despite the incoming moisture, winter impacts will remain limited thanks to unusually high snow levels. Forecasters note that snow will stay “between 6,000 and 8,000 feet,” keeping the vast majority of lowland and mid-elevation communities free from snowfall and related hazards.
Heavy Rain and High Snow Levels Through Saturday
The system’s arrival on Thursday night will gradually increase cloud cover and light precipitation, with rain becoming more widespread by Friday morning. As warm air pushes inland, the elevated snow levels will confine any accumulation strictly to the higher peaks of the Cascades, Siskiyous, and surrounding mountain ranges.
Most communities—including Medford, Grants Pass, Ashland, Cave Junction, and surrounding valleys—will see steady rainfall with minimal travel disruptions. Mountain highways and passes above 6,000 feet may experience wet snow, but impacts should remain limited.
The NWS explains that the event is more beneficial than hazardous, emphasizing that “winter impacts will be minimal for most areas” due to the high freezing levels.
Strong Mountain Winds Expected Friday
While snow is unlikely to cause issues, wind will be a concern for anyone traveling or recreating at higher elevations. On Friday, the mountains above 5,000 feet are expected to experience wind gusts “between 35 and 45 mph,” which could make hiking, camping, or backcountry travel more difficult.
Lower elevations and valley locations will see breezier conditions, with sustained winds between 15 and 25 mph, tapering off in more sheltered pockets of the Rogue Valley. The strongest winds will occur on exposed ridges and open slopes.
The NWS cautions that “gusty winds may make travel difficult in higher terrain”, especially for drivers on mountain passes or motorists operating high-profile vehicles.
System Shifts South Into Saturday
Rain and wind will continue into Saturday as the system slowly shifts southward across the region. Moisture will begin to taper off later in the day, though lingering showers may persist into Saturday night.
Temperatures will remain relatively mild thanks to the warm front, with daytime highs in the upper 40s to mid-50s and overnight lows remaining above freezing for most communities.
Conclusion
Southern Oregon is gearing up for a wet and windy weekend as a warm Pacific system moves across the region. High snow levels will limit winter hazards, but anyone planning to travel or recreate in the mountains should be prepared for strong winds and changing weather conditions through Saturday.
Share Your Experience
What are conditions like in your part of Oregon this weekend? Share your local weather update in the comments.
