November 19, 2024 3:50 a.m.  

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 4:00 p.m. Tuesday through 4:00 p.m. Wednesday for the South-Central Oregon Cascades above 4,000 feet.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service said a cold front will move through the region Tuesday evening, bringing heavy snow to locations mostly above 4,000 feet. Once the front passes Wednesday night, heavy wet snow will continue to fall. This applies to Douglas, Jackson and Klamath counties. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 21 inches are expected with winds gusting as high as 75 miles per hour over exposed terrain.

The Warning area includes Crater Lake, Diamond Lake and portions of Highways 62, 138, and 230.

Forecasters said whiteout conditions are possible and will make traveling treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Travel could be difficult to impossible. Very strong winds could cause extensive damage to trees and powerlines. Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous.

Those who must travel should keep an extra flashlight, food and water in their vehicle in case of an emergency. Visit www.tripcheck.com for current road information.