A Fire Weather Watch has been issued for much of Southern Oregon as monsoonal moisture increases thunderstorm chances Wednesday. Forecasters say abundant lightning, gusty outflow winds and critically dry fuels could lead to new wildfire starts across the region.

Red Flag Warnings have been issued for Friday across parts of Southern Oregon and Northern California, including Klamath, Lake, Modoc and Siskiyou counties, as thunderstorms are expected to bring abundant lightning over dry fuels.

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Oregon Cascades with heavy snow and strong winds expected through Thursday. Forecasters say up to 30 inches of snow is possible in some higher elevations with difficult travel conditions. Additional watches, warnings, and advisories have been issued across Southern Oregon and Northern California.

Rain, snow, and gusty winds are expected across Southern Oregon this week as a strong weather system moves through the region. The National Weather Service says heavy mountain snow, falling snow levels, and winds up to 55 mph could impact travel, while a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the southern Oregon Cascades with up to 20 inches of snow possible.

Mt. Ashland Ski Area has paused all ski operations indefinitely beginning January 15 due to low snowpack, warm weather, and no snowfall forecasted.