Portland, Oregon – Wet highways and reduced visibility could slow drivers along I-5 and U.S. 26 before 8 a.m. Thursday as a series of Pacific systems moves into Oregon, bringing widespread rain in the valleys and accumulating snow in the higher Cascades through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Oregon now sits in a 60 to 70 percent above-normal precipitation zone through Tuesday, marking one of the more active signals in the western United States. The same 8-to-14-day outlook favors below-normal temperatures across much of the West Coast, reinforcing a cooler, unsettled pattern statewide.
In Portland, where average highs this time of year sit in the low 50s, temperatures may trend several degrees cooler during passing systems, with highs in the mid to upper 40s. Periods of steady rain could create ponding along I-5, I-84 and Highway 217, especially during heavier bursts. Salem and Eugene are likely to see similar wet conditions during the morning commute.
In the Cascades, snow levels are expected to hover near or above 7,000 feet during warmer periods, keeping most pass-level precipitation as rain or a rain-snow mix at times. However, accumulating snow remains likely at higher elevations, including Mount Hood and areas above Santiam Pass, particularly overnight when temperatures dip. Gusty winds may accompany stronger fronts, reducing visibility in exposed stretches of U.S. 97 and I-84 east of Portland.
Residents should prepare for travel delays in mountain corridors, secure outdoor items and monitor ODOT updates for pass conditions. The active storm track continues into early next week, and additional advisories remain possible. Winter is not fully over in Oregon, especially at elevation, as February comes to a close.
