Oregon — Headlights glow dimly through fog this morning as cold air settles into the Willamette Valley. Frost coats windshields, and damp pavement feels slick underfoot.
Temperatures hovered near 31 degrees early, allowing fog and frost to form across Portland and nearby suburbs. Visibility dropped sharply before sunrise, especially near rivers and low-lying neighborhoods. Drivers along I-5, I-84, and Highway 26 should watch for sudden slowdowns and black ice on bridges.
As the morning progresses, fog gradually thins and sunshine breaks through. Even so, cold air lingers. Afternoon highs reach the upper 40s, but shaded streets may stay slick longer than expected. Plan extra time if commuting or running morning errands.
Another frosty start is likely tonight. Skies turn mostly clear again, allowing temperatures to fall into the mid-30s. Patchy frost could return by early Wednesday, especially outside the urban core. Keep pets inside and protect sensitive plants.
Attention then turns toward New Year’s Day 2026. Clouds increase by Thursday morning, and rain chances rise by afternoon. While snow is not expected in the city, the transition from cold to wet conditions can still create brief hazards. Melting frost followed by rain may lead to slick roads early.
Rain becomes more likely Thursday night and Friday, with highs near 50 degrees. Wet pavement and reduced visibility could slow New Year’s travel across the metro area and surrounding highways. The first weekend of 2026 looks unsettled but milder, with continued showers and no major cold snaps expected.
Meteorologists note that this pattern fits a broader West Coast shift toward wetter weather as the new year begins. For now, winter still has a grip on mornings.
Slow down in fog, use low beams, and watch for icy patches on bridges. Traveling for New Year’s? What conditions are you seeing in your neighborhood?
Five-Day Outlook – Portland, Oregon
Today: Areas of frost early, sunny, high near 48
Wednesday: Partly sunny, frost possible early, high near 47
New Year’s Day 2026 (Thursday): Chance of rain, high near 46
Friday: Showers likely, high near 50
Saturday: Showers, high near 50
