Portland temperatures soared to new highs on Thursday, with a record-breaking 62 degrees sweeping the area, as reported by KGW. This spike in warmth marked the start of February and was felt from Salem to Kelso, as all main reporting sites hit the 60-degree mark. A similar weather pattern persists today, combining sunshine, clouds, and showers across the state. Expect valleys with ample afternoon sun to reach well into the 50s.
The groundhog might have to struggle to see its shadow on Groundhog Day amidst variable skies, which traditionally spells an extended winter. However, predictions from WTNH suggest that the absence of shadows could herald an early spring due to a weak system passing through. Evening temperatures are expected to fall to near 32 degrees, with a mix of rain and showers dappling the forecast, potentially creating slick spots.
While snow levels are set to lower to 3,000 feet, with flurries or light snow showers on the horizon, the upcoming days promise a mix of conditions. A slight chance of showers lingers on Saturday, but Sunday is forecasted to be dry by KGW, with potential frosty fog expected to blanket the morning. The Cascades are looking at snowfall starting Sunday night, continuing into Monday, with levels near or above 4,000 feet.
Looking ahead, NBC Boston forecasts a sunny disposition to reclaim the weekend skies. Saturday is slated to deliver dry and sunny conditions with highs set in the mid to upper 30s. Sunday, considered to be brighter, aims to "warm us to the mid and upper 30s" yet again. This bout of brightness could prove a stark contrast to a Friday veiled in clouds, where temperatures are supposed to casually crest into the low 40s during the afternoon.
While the rural folks may enjoy this brief moment of clarity in the sky, the South Shore and Cape Cod could remain an exception, with persistent cloud cover according to NBC Boston. The extended outlook is a carousel of weather turns, with a dry Tuesday, followed by a rainy Wednesday, and then once again returning to dry conditions by Thursday. At this stage, the forecast shows no indication of any major storms brewing on the horizon.
