Significant Storm Set to Hit Cascades & Drop Up to Two Feet of Snow

(NWS) A potent storm system is expected to move into the area Friday and Friday night. This system is poised to bring heavy snow and strong winds to elevations above 5000 feet. The snow combined with the winds could cause tree damage and bring whiteout conditions at times. ...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE THURSDAY NIGHT THROUGH LATE FRIDAY NIGHT ABOVE 5000 FEET... * WHAT...Heavy snow possible above 5000 feet. Total snow accumulations of 10 to 20 inches possible, except 6 to 10 inches near Lake of the Woods and Mt Ashland. Winds gusts of 50 to 70 mph are possible. * WHERE...South Central Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains and Southern Oregon Cascades, including Crater Lake, Diamond Lake, and Lake of the Woods. This includes Highways 62, 140, 230 and 138 and also Mt Ashland Ski Road. * WHEN...From late Thursday night through late Friday night. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage and reduce visibility below one quarter of a mile at times. Blowing and drifting snow is also possible. * View the hazard area in detail at https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/mfr/HAZARD PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... * Stock emergency kit with tire chains, flashlight, batteries, blankets, food, water, and medications. * The safest place during a winter storm is indoors. * Plan now to avoid traveling during the storm. * A Winter Storm Watch means there is potential for significant snow accumulations that may create dangerous travel.