February 27, 2024 3:50 a.m.

A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening for mountain areas in southern Oregon.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service said heavy snow and strong winds are possible. Total accumulations of 1 to 2 feet are expected with winds gusting as high as 55 miles per hour.

The Watch area includes the eastern Douglas County foothills, south central and southern Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains. It applies to Crater Lake, Diamond Lake, Howard Prairie, Union Creek, Crescent Lake and significant portions of highways 58, 138, 230, 62 and 140.

Forecasters said travel could be very difficult to impossible. Patchy blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. Gusty winds could also bring down tree branches.

Drivers should slow down and allow extra time to reach their destination. Carry tire chains and be prepared for snow covered roads and limited visibilities.