Portland, Oregon – A noticeable shift toward milder and drier winter weather is expected across Oregon beginning Thursday, with temperatures trending above normal and precipitation chances falling below average through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Oregon is forecast to experience above-normal temperatures from Thursday through Monday, paired with below-normal precipitation. This pattern marks a break from the frequent storm systems that often dominate mid-January across the Pacific Northwest.
Western Oregon, including Portland, Salem, Eugene, Corvallis, and the Willamette Valley, is expected to see fewer rain events than typical for this time of year. While cloud cover will still pass through at times, prolonged or heavy rainfall looks unlikely. Daytime highs are expected to run milder than average, with overnight lows also staying relatively moderate, limiting frost concerns in valley locations.
Along the Coast Range and Cascades, precipitation will be more limited than normal, which may slow snowpack growth at higher elevations. Mountain travel impacts are expected to be reduced compared to a typical January stretch, though drivers should still monitor pass conditions for brief changes.
Central and eastern Oregon, including Bend, Redmond, La Grande, Pendleton, and the Columbia Basin, will also trend drier than usual. Temperatures are expected to run above seasonal norms, leading to calmer weather conditions with minimal precipitation. Some areas may experience morning fog or low clouds, especially in valleys and basins.
Major travel corridors such as Interstate 5, Interstate 84, U.S. Highway 97, and U.S. Highway 26 are expected to see generally favorable conditions during this period.
While the warmer and drier pattern may be welcome for travel and outdoor activities, residents should remain mindful of longer-term impacts on water supply and snowpack if this trend persists. For now, the mild and dry setup is expected to continue into early next week, with a return to more active weather possible later beyond this period.
