PORTLAND, OR – The Pacific sky over Portland tells the story — layered gray clouds, a damp chill, and the faint scent of rain already drifting in from the coast. It’s a busy weather stretch ahead for the metro area, with steady rainfall, gusty winds, and even a few rumbles of thunder possible through Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, showers begin to increase after midmorning Friday as a strong Pacific front approaches. By afternoon, rain will turn widespread with southerly winds between 10–20 mph and gusts topping 30 mph along the Columbia River. Friday’s high near 60°F will mark the warmest part of the weekend before cooler air filters in behind the system.
The wettest window arrives Saturday, when heavy rain bands and scattered thunderstorms sweep across northwest Oregon. New rainfall totals could reach up to three-quarters of an inch by Saturday night. Wind gusts may again top 30 mph, especially in exposed areas and along I-84 east of the city. By Sunday, another round of showers is expected, tapering slowly through the evening as temperatures dip into the low 50s.
Monday begins with lingering clouds and a chance of light rain, but drier air should return midweek — bringing a brief pause before the next round of Pacific moisture arrives.
While the lowlands stay soggy, mountain passes could see early snow above 5,000 feet, an early teaser for winter. For now, Portlanders should keep umbrellas handy, clear storm drains, and plan for slower weekend travel — it’s the kind of steady, drizzly weather that marks the start of Oregon’s long wet season.
