Portland rolled out of bed to blue skies and a mild 57°F near PDX Monday morning, but the holiday is on a fast track to turn soggy. A Pacific frontal system is set to move inland through the day, bringing steady rain by midday, followed by scattered showers and a few isolated thunderstorms through the afternoon and evening. Anyone banking on dry outdoor gatherings should brace for wet conditions and a breezy, unsettled finish to Memorial Day.
What To Expect Monday, May 25, 2026
Rain is expected to reach the coast around daybreak, roughly between 7 and 9 a.m., then spread inland through late morning. The I-5 corridor and interior lowlands are most likely to see the steadiest rain between about 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., with showers and a chance of thunder from roughly 2 to 5 p.m. Highs should briefly top out near 66°F before slipping back into the low 60s during the afternoon. New rainfall totals of a tenth to a quarter inch are likely across the valley, with higher amounts along the coast and Coast Range, according to the National Weather Service Portland.
Afternoon Winds And Coast Impacts
South-southwest winds will crank up through the afternoon, generally 6 to 13 mph across the metro with gusts up to about 24 mph inland, while exposed coastal headlands and beaches see stronger gusts and more persistent winds. Small Craft Advisories are in effect through 5 p.m., and a Hazardous Seas Watch stretches from this afternoon into Tuesday morning, so boaters and beachgoers are urged to steer clear of rough offshore waters and tie down loose gear. These wind and marine alerts come from the National Weather Service Portland.
Travel And Memorial Day Plans
TriMet is operating on a Saturday schedule for Memorial Day, so riders should check times and expect reduced frequency on many routes, with extra time built in for wet roads and slower traffic later in the day. Portland International Airport is expected to stay mostly VFR, but heavier showers and gusty winds could trigger brief delays or temporary low ceilings during the afternoon. If you have evening travel plans, plan on leaving early. Check the TriMet site before you go.
Plan Ahead
Before the afternoon breeze kicks up, secure tents, canopies and loose outdoor items, and keep a light rain jacket handy for ceremonies and small gatherings. This article updates an earlier Memorial Day preview; see the sunny Sunday setup for background and neighborhood notes.
