Portland, Oregon — A wet and active weather pattern is set to impact western Oregon and southwest Washington this weekend as a Pacific front moves inland, bringing widespread rainfall and changing mountain snow levels.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, rain will begin along the coast early Saturday morning, spreading inland toward the Interstate 5 corridor by Saturday afternoon. Cities including Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Vancouver can expect steady rain through Saturday night and much of Sunday, with wet roads and reduced visibility likely during periods of heavier precipitation.
Snow levels will remain elevated between 6,000 and 7,000 feet through most of the weekend, meaning mountain passes and higher elevations will see rain rather than snow initially. However, conditions will change late Sunday night into Monday, as colder air arrives behind the system. Snow levels are forecast to drop to 3,000–4,000 feet, increasing the potential for accumulating snow in the Cascades and foothill communities.
By Sunday afternoon and evening, rainfall will gradually transition from steady rain to scattered showers, though slick conditions will persist on major roadways including I-5, US-26, and US-20. Drivers traveling through higher elevations late Sunday night or early Monday should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions as snow levels fall.
While flooding is not currently expected, repeated rainfall could lead to localized ponding on roads, clogged storm drains, and rises on small streams. Outdoor plans this weekend may be impacted, especially along the coast and in the Willamette Valley.
Residents are encouraged to plan extra travel time, use headlights during rain, and stay alert for updated forecasts. Mountain travelers should closely monitor conditions as colder air arrives.
For the latest updates and detailed local forecasts, visit weather.gov/portland and follow official advisories throughout the weekend.
