Winter weather is heading for southwest Oregon again -- and this time it's packing a more powerful punch.
The National Weather Service has posted a Winter Storm Warning for the region above 2,000 feet from 1 a.m. Tuesday through 4 p.m. Wednesday.
Heavy snow and blowing snow are expected above 2,000 feet in Josephine, Jackson, eastern Douglas and eastern Curry counties. Total accumulations of up to 12 inches is expected, with up to 24 inches possible over the highest terrain. Winds could gust up to 50 miles per hour.
Affected areas include the foothills of the Cascade, Siskiyou and Klamath mountains. Affected roadways include portions of Interstate 5 and Highways 62, 140, 199 and 227.
Travel could be very difficult to impossible due to the weather conditions. Blowing snow could cause whiteout conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning and evening commutes. Do not detour during winter storms.
Significant winter weather impacts are possible for the Interstate 5 passes between Grants Pass and Canyonville if snow levels are only 100 to 200 feet lower than expected. The most likely time for this to occur will be Wednesday morning and Wednesday evening.
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.
