Portland is sitting under mostly cloudy skies and about 39°F at midday on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, as a fast-moving front shoves showers back into the metro area. Rain is expected to ramp up from late Wednesday morning into the afternoon, with a brief window for heavy downpours and isolated thunderstorms. Highs should land near 54°F before easing later in the day.
Afternoon Showers And A Thunder Threat
Showers look most likely from roughly 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., then fade into scattered showers and a few storms later in the day. The official forecast pegs the daytime chance of measurable rain at about 80 percent. Southwest winds stay mostly light but can get gusty at times, around 3–12 mph inland with gusts to about 22 mph, and brief stronger gusts of 30–35 mph possible near exposed coastal spots and the Columbia River Gorge. According to NWS Portland, a few thunderstorms could kick out small hail and strong outflow gusts in a handful of locations.
Evening Cooldown And Overnight Frost
Showers taper into the evening, with only a slight chance of rain after about 8 p.m., and temperatures drop to around 35°F Wednesday night. Clearer skies Thursday morning will allow radiational cooling and localized frost in low-lying neighborhoods, so cover sensitive plants and plan for a chilly early-morning commute. Thursday itself looks dry and a bit warmer, with highs near 57°F.
Coastal Waters And Travel Notes
A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect for parts of the coastal and nearshore waters through late Wednesday evening as seas build to around 10–12 feet. Mariners and shoreline residents are advised to secure loose gear and steer clear of small, open vessels. Wet pavement and brief heavy downpours may slow midday and afternoon travel, and Portland International Airport could see scattered delays or short periods of low ceilings during heavier showers. For background on this active week, see our earlier look at teasing snow and whipping winds.
Plan Ahead
If you are headed outside today, bring waterproof layers and be ready for gusty pockets, and secure any loose outdoor furniture. Protect frost-sensitive plants tonight, then look for a drier and warmer stretch to build in from Friday into the weekend.
