Portland residents can expect a wet end to December, as a series of rainstorms is set to drench the city over the coming week. According to the latest update from the National Weather Service (NWS), there's an 80% chance of precipitation today with showers likely to begin after 2 p.m. and continue into the evening. While today's high is near 50 degrees, the wind might make it feel slightly chillier.
Tonight, the rain is expected to persist mainly before 11 p.m. with lows dropping to around 41 degrees. A south wind of 5 to 9 mph will accompany the evening's showers, "with gusts as high as 20 mph," as reported by the NWS. Rainfall amounts are forecasted to range from a tenth to a quarter of an inch, signaling a soggy start to the week.
The likelihood of rain diminishes slightly on Tuesday, with a 30% chance of precipitation before the morning and again after 4 p.m. However, by Tuesday night, rain chances increase to 70%, continuing the spell of gray skies and wet conditions that are set to drench Portland inhabitants.
Wednesday won't bring much reprieve, as rain is once again likely, especially before 10 a.m. Despite the bleak forecast, skies are expected to clear by the afternoon, bringing an eventual escape from the constant drizzle. East southeast winds of 7 to 9 mph in the morning are slated to shift south southwest later in the day, with "new precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible," per the NWS release.
The outlook leading up to Christmas Day doesn't promise a winter wonderland, with mostly cloudy conditions and a 60% chance of rain in the forecast. Those dreaming of a white Christmas might be disappointed as temperatures hover around 48 degrees, dampening any hope of snowfall.
As Portlanders brace for the impending rainfall, they can stay informed on current and upcoming weather conditions by visiting the National Weather Service website for the most recent forecasts and advisories.
