Oregon – A cold breeze sweeps through the Columbia Plateau this morning as Pendleton wakes under clear skies, setting the stage for a shifting week of Pacific weather. Thanksgiving travel is already ramping up across the region, and changing patterns could slow commutes for drivers crossing the Blue Mountains or heading toward Walla Walla and I-84.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, mild and partly sunny conditions early in the week will give way to rain by Tuesday afternoon. Winds out of the southwest will increase through midweek, pushing in moisture from the coast. The snow level drops to around 3,000 feet Tuesday night—low enough for light flakes across higher terrain north and east of the valley.
By Wednesday, rain becomes more widespread, with highs near 46°F and gusty winds up to 25 mph. Thanksgiving Day looks damp, too, with a 50% chance of rain across Umatilla County and neighboring areas. Travelers heading east toward La Grande or up into the mountains should prepare for slick pavement and reduced visibility.
Temperatures cool sharply into the weekend, with highs in the 30s and snow levels dipping below 2,000 feet. To be fair, major accumulations aren’t expected just yet—but models hint at a “winter tease,” signaling that early-season snow could return soon after the holiday.
For now, travelers should pack rain gear, check routes before heading out, and watch for icy patches during early morning drives.
