Portland is clear and sitting near 43°F this Monday, March 23, 2026, but the calm will not last. A Pacific frontal system is set to push inland on Tuesday, March 24, bringing steady rain and breezy southerly winds across the metro area. Showers should begin late Monday night and turn steady Tuesday morning, with the coast and exposed ridgetops taking the brunt of the strongest gusts. Patchy frost was possible in low-lying spots early Monday.
What To Expect Tuesday
Tuesday, March 24 is shaping up to be a mostly wet day, with highs in the mid 50s and periods of steady rain. New rainfall amounts are expected to total a quarter to a half inch in the interior lowlands and up to an inch along the coast. Inland gusts of 30 to 35 mph are likely, while coastal gusts may reach 40 to 45 mph during stronger bands of rain.
Timing And Commute
Showers will develop late Monday night and should be widespread by Tuesday morning. The strongest winds along the coast are expected roughly between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., with inland gusts peaking from midday into the afternoon. Roads will be slick and visibility can drop during heavier downpours, so allow extra travel time and watch for ponding in low spots. Transit and flights could see delays, so if you must travel, consider leaving earlier or adjusting plans.
Marine And Boating
A Gale Watch is in effect for coastal waters and the Columbia River Bar from late tonight through Tuesday evening, and Small Craft Advisories remain in effect for nearshore zones into Monday morning. Mariners should avoid exposed waters as seas build. Seas could reach 12 to 15 ft Tuesday with a small chance of higher values well offshore. Check the latest marine forecasts before heading out, according to the National Weather Service.
Looking Ahead
Showers taper on Wednesday, March 25 with lighter amounts and a brief drop in snow levels in the Cascades, although accumulation in valley areas is unlikely. Dry weather and a warming trend return Thursday through Saturday, with highs into the upper 50s Friday and 60s by Saturday, March 28. The southern Willamette Valley has the best shot at reaching 70°F. Updates will follow if watches or advisories change.
More
We previewed this system in our March 11 forecast; for background see the days of dumping rain story. That piece includes additional context on river and coastal impacts and earlier advisories.
