Portland is kicking off Sunday, February 1 with a classic gray-and-drizzly special, as light rain turns the morning commute into a slick, mid-40s slog. Forecasters expect steady rain through the morning, with temperatures climbing to a high near 56°F before the action eases into lighter, on-and-off showers later this afternoon.
What To Expect This Afternoon
According to the National Weather Service Portland, another quarter to a half inch of rain is on tap, with south winds around 5 to 10 mph and gusts that could reach 20 mph. Most of the steady rain should wind down by mid to late afternoon, but roads will stay wet and slick, so plan a little extra travel time if you are driving. Visibility could drop during the heavier showers, especially on busy routes.
Tonight And Monday
Showers taper off this evening, with just a slight chance of rain before 2 a.m., then patchy fog and a low near 42°F closing out the night. Monday, February 2 looks mostly dry across much of the Willamette Valley. The best chance for light rain will be north of the Columbia River and along the north coast, while the rest of the region gets a break. Highs Monday should land near 54°F with light southeast winds.
Next Week: Warm And Mostly Dry
A strong upper-level ridge builds in Monday night and flips the switch to a stretch of dry, unseasonably warm weather from Tuesday, February 3 through at least Friday. Expect plenty of sun and highs in the upper 50s to around 60°F, with generally light winds. An easterly breeze funneled through the Columbia River Gorge will keep eastern suburbs breezy at times and may bring localized gusts. The pattern also increases the chance for stagnant air and lower air quality in some valley locations if it sticks around for several days.
Coast And Mariners
According to the National Weather Service Portland, a Small Craft Advisory remains in effect for the coastal waters through 4 p.m. Monday, with seas running around 10 to 13 feet and a long-period swell building. Forecasters are also flagging a high sneaker-wave threat through Monday and into Tuesday, so it is a good time to stay off jetties, keep clear of the surf zone, and postpone razor-clamming or beach walks during the riskiest tide windows.
If you are heading to the coast or driving in the rain-soaked lowlands, bring solid rain gear and give yourself extra time. Check the latest local forecast and marine updates before you go, since conditions along the coast and through the Gorge can change in a hurry.
