Portlanders who barely had time to stash the umbrellas are reaching for them again. Light rain is falling across the city on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, with temperatures hovering near 54°F at Portland International Airport. Showers are expected to hang around through the day and into Wednesday, keeping highs near 60°F on Tuesday before slipping into the upper 50s on Wednesday. Out on the water, a short Small Craft Advisory is in effect from 6–10 AM PDT Tuesday, April 21, and a Hazardous Seas Watch covers offshore waters from Wednesday morning through Thursday morning (April 22–23), so boaters will want to stay on their toes.
What To Expect Today
Rain is likely through much of Tuesday, with lowland totals generally limited to a few tenths of an inch and higher amounts over the Coast Range and Cascades. West to southwest winds stay on the mild side, generally 2–6 mph, but persistent overcast and drizzle will keep roads slick and visibility muted. According to NWS Portland, the best chance for steady precipitation runs through Wednesday, with only a brief lull in the showers tonight.
Wednesday: Gusts And Higher Seas
By Wednesday, a stronger front teaming up with a northwest swell will push offshore seas into the 10–12 ft range in the outer waters, with some pockets several dozen miles offshore that could climb higher than 12 ft. Onshore and ridge-top gusts may reach the mid-20s mph, especially at exposed coastal headlands and higher terrain. Small vessels should steer clear of exposed waters on Wednesday, and mariners are urged to check the latest marine forecasts before leaving the dock.
Commute And Air Travel
Drivers should plan for slower morning and evening commutes on both Tuesday and Wednesday as bands of light rain reduce visibility and keep pavement slick. Bridges and low-lying intersections remain the usual trouble spots for ponding. At Portland International Airport, lowered ceilings and reduced flight visibility could trigger brief delays, so it is wise to build in some extra time if you are catching a flight. Cyclists and drivers of high-profile vehicles may want to favor more protected routes or delay nonessential trips during the gustier stretches.
Looking Ahead
High pressure is expected to nudge back in on Thursday, bringing drier skies and a warming trend that sends inland highs into the mid-60s on Thursday and close to 70°F by Friday and Saturday. For background on the earlier warm spell and how it sets up this midweek turn back to rain, see weekend sun before midweek rain. If you have coastal plans later in the week, keep an eye on updated advisories as conditions evolve.
