Portland, OR – The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for the Western and Central Columbia River Gorge and the Hood River Valley, in effect from 7 p.m. Wednesday until noon Thursday. A Cold Weather Advisory will follow, lasting through noon Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, dangerously low wind chills—potentially as cold as zero degrees Fahrenheit—are expected across Multnomah Falls, Hood River, Cascade Locks, and surrounding areas. The frigid conditions could cause frostbite and hypothermia within minutes of exposure.
Residents should wear multiple layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, insulated jackets, and waterproof footwear. Outdoor exposure should be limited, and backcountry travel is strongly discouraged.
The cold snap will ease by Friday afternoon, but temperatures will remain below seasonal averages. Officials urge residents to check on vulnerable individuals and ensure pets have adequate shelter.
For updates, visit the National Weather Service website or local emergency management sources.
