Pacific storm will bring snow to S. Oregon passes

MEDFORD, Ore. -- A hazardous weather outlook has been issued for the mountains south, east and northeast of the Rogue Valley.

Snow levels are expected to drop to 3,000 feet after midnight tonight, which means snow should be expected on the road on Highway 140 between Medford and Klamath Falls and at the Siskiyou Summit south of Ashland, among others.

Weather weather advisories have been issued for the Cascades north of Diamond Lake. The storm system is expected to cause significant travel problems in that area

A strong cold front is moving through the region this afternoon and evening with widespread rain and rapidly falling temperatures. Snow levels in Southern Oregon will start out at 7,000 feet, dropping to 4,500 feet by evening (right at Siskiyou Pass level). It will continue falling to about 3,000 feet by Tuesday morning.

Up to 2 inches of snow is expected between 4,000 and 5,000 feet with local amounts of twice that above 5,000 feet. All major passes through the Cascades and Siskiyous will see at least some light snow accumulation, including Diamond Lake Summit, Highway 62 near Crater Lake, Lakke of the Woods, Green Springs and Siskiyou Summit. travelers should prepare for winter driving conditions.

Snow showers will continue with accumulation of an additional 2-4 inches possible.