Last weekend's warm weather will give way to another blast of winter this week in southwest Oregon.
The National Weather Service has posted a Winter Storm Watch for Jackson, Josephine, central Douglas and eastern Curry counties that runs from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening.
Heavy snow is possible above 2,500 feet, with total accumulations of 12 inches possible. Snow is possible on US Highway 199 at Hayes Hill and Highway 238 at Jacksonville Hill on Thursday. Winds could gust as high as 50 miles per hour.
Areas expected to be affected by the storm include Butte Falls, the Tiller-Trail Highway, Dead Indian Memorial Road, and portions of highways 62 and 140. Travel could be very difficult to impossible at times. The hazardous conditions could impact the evening and morning commutes.
Travel is discouraged during the Watch period. If you must travel, stock your vehicle with an emergency kit including tire chains, a flashlight, batteries, blankets, food, water, medications and a fully-charged phone.
A Winter Storm Watch means there is potential for significant snow accumulations that may create dangerous travel conditions.
