Snow Forecast for Portland and Surrounding Areas: What to Expect

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Portland and Vancouver metro areas, predicting accumulating snow starting Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday morning. Meteorologist David Bishop indicated a "moderate confidence" level for several inches of snow, with travel impacts expected along the I-5 corridor. The forecast suggests a 45 to 60% chance of one to two inches of snowfall in the region, although the exact location of the snow band remains uncertain.

KGW - Portland NewsSnow is finally falling in Oregon’s mountains and could hit the lowlands

Snow is expected to begin around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, potentially disrupting the evening commute. Areas at elevations of 500 feet or higher, such as the West Hills and Mount Tabor in East Portland, may experience more significant snowfall. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) has advised residents to drive cautiously and consider using traction tires if travel is necessary. The advisory remains in effect through Thursday afternoon, with the NWS cautioning that snow and ice may not persist long, as temperatures are projected to rise to 45 degrees on Thursday.

KGW - Portland NewsSnow is finally falling in Oregon’s mountains and could hit the lowlands

The anticipated snowfall is particularly welcomed by businesses in the Cascade region, such as the Huckleberry Inn at Government Camp. Owner Ed Rogers expressed relief at the prospect of snow after a dry winter, stating, “I haven’t seen one of these as long as I’ve been here.” While the forecast predicts up to two feet of snow in the mountains, it is unlikely to fully compensate for the earlier winter deficit. Bishop noted that while several inches of snow are expected on the valley floor, the exact accumulation remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from no snow to significant accumulation in various areas.

Snow is finally falling in Oregon’s mountains and could hit the lowlandsKGW - Portland News

Despite the NWS's predictions, there are discrepancies regarding the potential snowfall locations. The models indicate three possible scenarios: no snow reaching the valley floor, accumulation in areas like Longview and Kelso, or snowfall in the southern Willamette Valley, including cities like Salem and Corvallis. This uncertainty highlights the challenges meteorologists face in predicting weather patterns, particularly with the current low-pressure system.

Snow is finally falling in Oregon’s mountains and could hit the lowlands

The NWS has urged residents to monitor weather updates closely, especially if travel plans are in place. The advisory emphasizes the importance of being prepared for changing conditions, particularly in higher elevations where snow accumulation is more likely.

KGW - Portland News

• “We currently have a winter weather advisory for the Cascades, the Cascade foothills and the Coast Range,” — David Bishop, Meteorologist, National Weather Service

Snow is finally falling in Oregon’s mountains and could hit the lowlands

• “This will help out by adding possibly a foot to two feet in snow when it’s all said and done to the Cascades,” — David Bishop, Meteorologist, National Weather Service

Snow is finally falling in Oregon’s mountains and could hit the lowlands

• “We need at least 10 feet of snow,” — Ed Rogers, Owner, Huckleberry Inn

Snow is finally falling in Oregon’s mountains and could hit the lowlands

As the weather develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed and exercise caution during the expected snowfall.