Winter Storm Hits Pacific Northwest with Expected Freezing Rain and Snow
PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — The Portland area, along with western Oregon and southwest Washington, is preparing for a significant winter weather event this week. A surge of cold, modified Arctic air began flowing from the Columbia River Gorge on Monday, leading to consistently low temperatures expected throughout Tuesday and Wednesday.
Highs in the region are forecasted to only reach the mid to upper 30s, while overnight lows will dip into the upper teens and lower 20s. Meteorologist Rhonda Shelby from Storm Tracker 2 warned that a low-pressure system approaching the southern Oregon Coast on Thursday will bring moisture that could result in a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain in the area.
“Snow, possibly transitioning to freezing rain and sleet, is expected to begin mid-morning and could last into the afternoon,” Shelby said. However, areas less influenced by the gorge will likely experience freezing rain sooner due to the ongoing cold front.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has projected the likelihood of freezing rain exceeding 0.2 inches to be highest in the mid-Willamette Valley and the Oregon Coast range, with Corvallis expecting a 68% chance of seeing such conditions. Salem and McMinnville have a 38% chance for similar levels of freezing rain.
For snowfall predictions, cities like Corvallis, Salem, McMinnville, Portland, and Longview have a better than 50% chance of receiving at least an inch of snow on Thursday. Eugene’s chances are slightly lower at 24%, while the Oregon Coast remains under a 12% chance for accumulating snow.
Addressing concerns about travel conditions, the NWS has emphasized the importance of staying updated as winter weather can bring treacherous driving circumstances. “Even a small amount of freezing rain can create hazardous conditions,” the NWS stated.
As winter weather alerts extend across 22 states, from Nebraska to Massachusetts, local authorities are preparing for potential power outages and travel disruptions. Predictions indicate severe effects for major cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York, and Boston, all of which may see school closures in advance of the storm.
Travel disruptions have already begun with over 60 flights canceled and more than 600 delayed as of Thursday morning. Interstate travel restrictions are anticipated as well, particularly in regions experiencing significant ice accumulation.
Residents are advised to remain cautious and plan ahead, with authorities warning that winter storms can result in rapid changes in road conditions. “It’s crucial for everyone to heed warnings and consider safety first while traveling,” said an NWS spokesperson.
