Cold Front Brings Potential Snow to Portland This Week
As a cold front approaches the Pacific Northwest, residents in the Portland area should prepare for potential snowfall. The National Weather Service is predicting a 20-40% chance of low-elevation snow from Monday night through Tuesday morning.
Cold Front Impacts on Portland Weather
The cold front moving over the region will bring light rain and clouds on Sunday. By Monday morning, temperatures will drop significantly, leading to snowfall in some areas. Snow levels are expected to drop to around 1,500 feet north of Salem and approximately 2,000 feet to the south.
Forecast Details
On Sunday, highs are forecasted to reach 55°F while lows will be around 37°F. The weather service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Cascade Mountains, where up to a foot of snow could accumulate in some locations. This snow is anticipated primarily in areas receiving heavier rainfall.
- Monday’s high: 48°F
- Monday’s low: 34°F
- Chance of snow: 20-40% (Monday night into Tuesday)
- Snow levels: 500-1,000 feet likely
In the Portland-Vancouver metro area, the forecast remains uncertain. There is currently a 30-50% chance of snow accumulation of at least 0.1 inch, while the likelihood of receiving 1 inch or more drops to 10-20%. Certain regions, like Cowlitz County, may see a higher chance of snow due to cold air pooling in the valleys.
Potential Accumulation and Uncertainties
Forecast models indicate a 10% to 80% chance of accumulating up to 2 inches of snow in the north Oregon Coast Range. However, uncertainty remains, especially regarding when precipitation will coincide with colder temperatures.
- Forecast for snow accumulations:
- Metro area: 30-50% chance of 0.1 inch or greater
- 1 inch or more: 10-20% chance
Monday’s weather may bring light rain and a 15-20% possibility of isolated thunderstorms in northern regions. As the week progresses, the cold front will dissipate, leading to a warm front that increases temperatures and elevates snow levels.
By midweek, higher elevations in the southwest Washington Cascades may expect additional moderate to heavy snowfall, particularly between Thursday and Friday. Weather conditions could change rapidly, so it is advisable for residents to stay updated with reliable forecasts.
