Clouds and mid-40s temperatures greeted Portland at PDX this morning, and the gray theme is sticking around. Light rain is expected to move inland this afternoon, with the wettest window in the early afternoon. Plan on wet roads, slower-than-normal commutes, and a generally damp Sunday, March 29, 2026, across the metro. In other words, this is not the day to forget your umbrella in the car.
Today and the Commute
Rain is most likely between about 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, March 29, with a high near 54°F and a roughly 60% chance of precipitation. Totals should be light in the lowlands, generally under a tenth of an inch, with a few tenths possible in the Cascades. Southwest breezes will be modest inland and stronger at the coast, and visibility may fall briefly during the heavier bursts, so allow extra travel time this afternoon. These timing and short-term details come from the National Weather Service point forecast at NWS Portland.
Tonight and Monday
A slight chance of rain before 7 p.m. gives way to clearing overnight and a low near 34°F, with areas of frost possible after about 3 a.m. Monday. Parts of the Willamette Valley and the I-5 corridor in southwest Washington have the highest odds of dipping below freezing. Monday should be sunnier with highs near 56°F, so the cold start should gradually ease through the day. If you travel early Monday, check morning road reports and watch for slick spots on bridges.
What to Watch Midweek
A stronger Gulf of Alaska system is expected to arrive Wednesday, April 1, bringing widespread rain west of the Cascades plus significant mountain snow and gusty winds. Ensemble guidance indicates 48-hour rainfall totals could exceed an inch in some areas and there is a substantial chance of 6+ inches of snow at pass level in the Cascades. Gusty coastal winds are also possible, which could affect travel over the passes. Forecasters have more on timing and impacts in the National Weather Service forecast discussion.
Marine Outlook
Small Craft Advisories are posted for the outer waters from 8 p.m. Sunday, March 29 to 5 a.m. Tuesday, March 31, and for the inner waters from 2 p.m. Monday, March 30 to 5 a.m. Tuesday, March 31. Conditions may worsen late Tuesday into Wednesday with a chance of gale-force gusts and steep seas. Mariners and shoreline residents should avoid exposed areas and check the latest marine forecasts before heading out.
Bottom line: expect a wet Sunday afternoon, a chilly and possibly frosty Monday morning, then a wetter and windier stretch starting Wednesday, April 1, that could impact mountain travel and marine conditions. Leave extra time for trips today and keep an eye on National Weather Service updates if you have plans over the passes or on the water.
