Portland, Oregon – Strong easterly winds will sweep across the Portland-Vancouver metro area and the western Columbia River Gorge Friday evening into Saturday, with gusts up to 35 mph expected in the hardest-hit areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, the peak wind period will occur between 10 p.m. Friday and 7 a.m. Saturday. Communities including Troutdale, Washougal, Government Camp, and Cascade Locks are expected to see the strongest gusts, with several locations reaching or exceeding 32 mph during the overnight hours. Wind gusts in Portland itself are forecast to hit 30 mph by 1 a.m.
Drivers along I-84 and Highway 14 should use caution, especially overnight when gusts could cause blowing debris or sudden lane shifts. Power outages may occur in exposed areas, particularly near the Gorge and along east-facing slopes. Residents should secure loose outdoor items and consider limiting early morning travel.
Winds will gradually subside Saturday afternoon, with speeds dropping below 15 mph across most of the region by 4 p.m. Additional advisories are possible if gusts intensify or persist longer than expected.
