Portland woke up to clear skies and crisp air this Wednesday, with most thermometers starting out in the low 40s. Sunshine will quickly take over, pushing inland highs into the low 70s this afternoon and then closer to 80°F on Thursday, a patio friendly stretch if you can hold out one more cool morning.
Warm Week Ahead With Record Watch
High pressure is building over the region this week, setting up a quick warm up: look for highs near 71°F today, a high around 80°F Thursday, and only a modest cool down Friday before temperatures climb again this weekend. The National Weather Service Portland is eyeing a possible high near 88°F on Sunday and notes that if Portland International Airport hits 90°F on Sunday, May 3, it would break the daily record and rank among the earliest 90° readings on record. For local context, see our earlier chilly-to-sunny rundown and the National Weather Service Portland.
Frost Advisory For Upper Hood River Valley
A Frost Advisory remains in effect until 8 AM PDT this morning for the Upper Hood River Valley, including Odell and Parkdale. Sheltered hollows and spots above about 1,000 feet could slip down near freezing, so gardeners will want to protect sensitive outdoor plants by moving pots inside or covering them until the advisory expires. Most of the metro area will warm up quickly after sunrise and should dodge any lingering frost.
Boats, Beaches And Sneaker Waves
Coastal waters turn breezier this afternoon and evening, with Small Craft Advisory conditions expected for portions of the coast beginning this afternoon south of Cape Falcon. The Columbia River Bar is also forecast to see advisory conditions overnight into Thursday morning. Seas of 6–8 ft with a northwesterly swell will hang around, and a moderate sneaker wave threat is expected at beaches Wednesday and Thursday, so razor clam diggers and beachgoers should use extra caution. Mariners should secure loose gear, delay nonessential trips, and check the marine forecast before heading out.
Rivers Remain Cold
Even as afternoons heat up, local rivers and creeks will stay cold enough to trigger cold water shock. If you plan to paddle or swim, wear a personal flotation device, steer clear of fast, cold channels, and keep children and pets under close watch. Check current river and lake conditions before you go, and leave a float plan for any remote outings.
Enjoy the stretch of sun, but plan with safety in mind: cover tender plants, watch for marine advisories, and treat rivers like ice cold hazards even on the hottest afternoons. Updates will follow if any advisories change through the weekend.
