Portland woke up Wednesday, May 27, 2026, mostly clear and cool, roughly 54°F at Portland International Airport, before a sharp warm-up under sunny skies. Inland neighborhoods are expected to climb to around 81°F by mid to late afternoon. The quiet stretch will not last long, though, with the forecast turning more unsettled on Thursday, May 28, when showers and a chance of thunderstorms return. The action should favor the Cascades, but a few cells could drift into the metro late in the day.
Afternoon Warmth and a Breezy Boost
Sun will rule through Wednesday afternoon, helping push highs near 81°F across the Willamette Valley while the coast stays cooler. North-northwest winds should be light in the morning, then ramp up to around 10 to 15 mph by afternoon, with gusts of about 20 to 25 mph possible on bridges and exposed ridges. The breeze will help keep the warmth from feeling stuffy, but it could tip over umbrellas and send any unsecured patio gear on a short trip down the block.
Thursday Thunder Threat and Marine Advisory
Thursday, May 28, carries the bigger weather risk. Forecasters expect wrap-around moisture to move in late in the day, bringing an increased chance of showers and a few thunderstorms from late afternoon into the evening. The main focus will be over the Cascades and the Upper Hood River Valley, with some chance of storms sliding west into the Portland metro area.
Any stronger storms could deliver brief heavy downpours that lead to localized ponding, along with small hail and strong outflow winds. Isolated cells may kick up gusts in the 40 to 60 mph range. Out on the water, boaters should be ready for steep seas and northerly gusts across the coastal waters, with a Small Craft Advisory in effect through 5 AM PDT Thursday, May 28, according to the National Weather Service Portland.
Plan Ahead
If you have outdoor plans Thursday afternoon or evening, it is worth considering moving events earlier in the day or indoors, and keeping a close eye on radar and local advisories in case storms develop. For more background on how this pattern has been setting up, check out our earlier look at the gusts and gray skies that preceded this midweek warm-up.
