Portland Braces for Heavy Rain, Possible Snowfall This Weekend

PORTLAND, Ore. — A significant weather shift is expected to hit the Portland metro area, with heavy rain beginning Thursday night and the potential for snow starting Saturday. KGW meteorologists have issued alerts for the region, warning of possible snow accumulation in higher elevations and freezing temperatures by Sunday night.

Following a 17-day dry spell, steady rain is forecast to return Thursday evening, with heavy downpours expected overnight and into Friday. Rain totals are predicted to exceed half an inch in Portland, with showers continuing into the weekend. Snow levels, initially above 4,000 feet, are expected to drop rapidly to between 300 and 500 feet by Saturday, potentially bringing sticking snow to valley hills and other elevated areas.

“One to four inches of snow is possible in scattered locations, but the exact amount of precipitation remains uncertain,” said KGW meteorologist Rod Hill. Lower elevations, including downtown Portland, are likely to see rain showers with temperatures staying above freezing during the day.

Starting Sunday night, freezing temperatures could affect all elevations, leading to a mix of snow and rain showers in Portland. Hill noted that snow may stick on the ground overnight and into the morning hours, with temperatures rising near 40 degrees during the day. “It does appear all moisture will be in the form of snow showers Tuesday through Thursday of next week,” Hill added. “However, it’s unclear if Portland and Salem will see significant snow accumulation.”

The Cascades and Coast Range are also under threat, with a Winter Storm Watch in effect for Mount Hood and the Cascades from Thursday night through Saturday afternoon. Up to 20 inches of snow could fall at Mount Hood resorts, with eight inches expected at pass levels. The National Weather Service in Portland has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Oregon and Southwest Washington Cascades, predicting 6 to 12 inches of snow above 3,000 feet and up to 15 inches above 5,000 feet.

In the Coast Range and Willapa Hills, 2 to 4 inches of snow are forecast through Saturday afternoon. Travelers to the coast should prepare for winter driving conditions as snow levels drop to around 500 feet by late Saturday morning.

Storm Tracker 2 Meteorologist Rhonda Shelby emphasized that the incoming system marks a shift from historically dry and cold conditions to more typical February weather. “This is not looking like an arctic outbreak or deep freeze,” Shelby said. “It’s more of a minor snow threat for most areas below 1,000 feet early next week.”

Residents are advised to monitor updates as weather models continue to fluctuate. “Any slight change in cold air or precipitation could alter the forecast,” Shelby cautioned. Drivers should exercise caution if snow accumulates, as roads may become slick.

KGW and KATU will provide ongoing coverage of the weather system, with updates on potential impacts and safety tips for the region.