EUGENE, Ore. – A thick gray blanket stretches across the Willamette Valley this Thursday morning, the air damp and heavy with that unmistakable Pacific scent of oncoming rain. The calm start won’t last long. By Friday, western Oregon will once again be under the grip of a classic fall storm—bringing soaking rains, gusty winds, and slick travel through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, showers will begin late Thursday and increase rapidly by Friday morning. Widespread rainfall and breezy south winds between 15 and 25 mph are expected across Lane and Linn counties. Gusts up to 30 mph may sweep through open stretches of I-5 and exposed areas near the Coast Range foothills. Rain could total up to an inch by Saturday morning, with heavier amounts in the higher terrain.
Friday’s commute looks wet and slow, with ponding possible on highways and local streets. Drivers should allow extra time and use caution near merging lanes and underpasses. Thunder is also possible Friday afternoon as colder air aloft pushes inland.
The unsettled weather continues Saturday and Sunday, with scattered showers and isolated rumbles before tapering late Sunday night. Temperatures stay cool and seasonal—highs in the mid-50s, lows in the 40s—with no sign of snow in the valley yet.
Looking ahead, early next week offers a brief break before another system arrives midweek. For now, western Oregon is fully locked into its autumn rhythm: rain-slicked streets, mist over the fields, and that steady, soothing sound of water returning to the soil.
Five-Day Forecast for Eugene, OR:
Thu: 69/49 – Partly sunny; calm and mild.
Fri: 64/48 – Showers increasing; breezy at times.
Sat: 56/44 – Rain and possible thunder; cooler.
Sun: 54/41 – Scattered showers; cloudy skies.
Mon: 57/40 – Rain likely; breezy south wind.
