Oregon – Damp streets shine under streetlights this morning as light rain settles across the Portland metro. The air feels cold and still, and while rain is the immediate issue, winter’s bigger impact arrives once skies begin to clear.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, showers continue through the day with temperatures hovering in the low to mid-40s. Snow levels lower through the afternoon but remain above the valley floor, keeping precipitation as rain in town. Roads along I-5, I-84, and Highway 26 may stay slick, especially during steadier showers.
By later today, rainfall becomes more scattered. Saturday brings fewer showers and more breaks in the clouds, improving weekend travel conditions across the metro and southwest Washington. Highs remain cool, topping out in the mid-40s, with a noticeable chill lingering through the afternoon.
The bigger shift arrives Saturday night. As skies partially clear, temperatures fall quickly. Lows dip into the mid-30s, and areas outside the urban core may briefly touch freezing. Patchy frost becomes likely by early Sunday, especially on bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads where moisture lingers.
Sunday stays partly sunny but crisp. Any untreated surfaces could remain slick during early morning travel, raising the risk for black ice. Drivers heading out early should slow down and allow extra time, even if roads look dry.
Looking ahead, cold mornings continue into early next week. Monday starts with frost before afternoon temperatures rebound into the mid-40s. Meteorologists are tracking another system for Wednesday, December 31. Rain is possible around New Year’s Eve, but temperatures look warm enough to avoid lowland snow as 2026 approaches.
For now, keep rain gear handy today, then prepare for freezing mornings this weekend. Winter driving habits are becoming necessary. Heading out early Sunday? What conditions are you seeing where you live?
Five-Day Outlook for Portland, Oregon
- Today: Showers likely; highs near 47. Wet roads and reduced visibility at times.
- Saturday: Chance of showers early, then mostly cloudy; highs near 45.
- Sunday: Partly sunny; highs near 45 after a frosty morning.
- Monday: Areas of frost early, then partly sunny; highs near 46.
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy; highs near 46, watching New Year’s Eve rain chances.
