Portland, OR – Oregon is lining up for a high-impact winter pattern from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal precipitation statewide and temperatures ranging from near-normal west to below-normal east. This setup supports heavy snow in the mountains, freezing rain in the Columbia Gorge, and mixed wintry precipitation in key population centers, especially leading into Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, the Cascade Range—including Government Camp, Santiam Pass, Mount Hood Meadows, and Willamette Pass—is primed for multiple rounds of heavy snowfall from December 19–23. Snowfall may be intense at times, with blowing snow reducing visibility on Highway 26, U.S. 20, and Highway 58.
Across the Willamette Valley, including Portland, Salem, Eugene, and McMinnville, temperatures hover near freezing at night. This pattern increases the likelihood of freezing rain or icy mix, especially between December 19–21, before shifting to rain during the day. Late-period cooling from December 22–24 may allow precipitation to return to wet snow just before Christmas Eve.
The Columbia River Gorge—Hood River, Troutdale, Cascade Locks—faces the highest freezing-rain threat in Oregon. Cold east winds funnel through the Gorge, trapping low-level cold air while warmer Pacific moisture arrives aloft. This classic setup may produce significant glaze on bridges and untreated surfaces.
Along the Oregon Coast, including Astoria, Newport, and Coos Bay, heavy rain and strong winds will dominate. Localized flooding and coastal surge issues are possible, especially December 21–23.
Eastern Oregon—including Bend, La Grande, Pendleton, Ontario, and Baker City—trends much colder. Snow is favored throughout the period, with light to moderate accumulations and dangerous wind chills possible.
Major routes—including I-5, I-84, U.S. 97, U.S. 20, and Highway 26—may see snow, ice, flooding, fog, and widespread delays, especially from December 21 through Christmas Eve.
