PORTLAND, Ore. – A powerful atmospheric river is expected to drench northwest Oregon and southwest Washington through Sunday, bringing several inches of rain, strong winds, and significant snow to the Cascade passes. Low-lying areas could see ponding and minor flooding, while mountain passes may become slick or impassable by late Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, rainfall totals could exceed three inches in some western valleys and more than double that in the Coast Range and Cascade foothills. Winds may gust up to 40 mph along the coast and in the higher elevations, with snow levels dropping to near pass-level by Sunday.
Drivers are urged to clear drains and gutters, secure loose outdoor items, and check road conditions before traveling through the Cascades. ODOT warns that heavy rain and snowmelt could impact travel over U.S. 26, Highway 20, and Santiam Pass.
The system is expected to weaken late Sunday night, but additional storms could follow early next week as wet, unsettled weather continues across the Pacific Northwest.
Warnings remain in effect through Sunday night.
