Portland is starting the day under a blanket of clouds and cool air, with about 61°F recorded at Portland International Airport, but that gray mood will not stick around for long. By midday, skies are expected to turn mostly sunny with highs near 81°F, along with light north-northwest winds and a mild finish tonight, when temperatures slip only to around 56°F.
Afternoon And Weekend
Those stubborn morning low clouds should lift by late morning, clearing the way for plenty of afternoon sunshine. Saturday is set to warm a bit more, topping out near 83°F, and Sunday looks hotter still, heading into the upper 80s with some inland spots pushing close to 87°F. Coastal neighborhoods will dodge most of the heat and stay noticeably cooler under a persistent onshore breeze.
Next Week's Heat Peak
Early next week, a strengthening ridge will really crank up the thermostat, driving inland highs toward the 90s. Forecast highs are near 90°F on Monday, July 20, around 92°F on Tuesday, July 21, and back into the low 90s on Wednesday, July 22. Forecasters see a growing chance of several hot afternoons in a row with limited overnight relief. The odds sit at roughly 30 to 50 percent for hitting 90°F on Monday and 45 to 65 percent on Tuesday and Wednesday, plus a 15 to 30 percent chance of 95°F in the warmest valleys.
While the coast keeps its relative cool, the marine side of the story turns more active. Marine winds and seas are expected to pick up, with a Small Craft Advisory already in effect for the Columbia River Bar this morning and additional advisories anticipated for waters south of Cape Falcon this weekend. According to the National Weather Service Portland, anyone without reliable cooling at home should plan ahead and keep an eye on changing conditions.
Where To Find Relief
Multnomah County, local libraries, and community centers are prepared to open staffed cooling spaces and extend hours if the heat really spikes, so residents will have somewhere safe to cool down. People who need help finding a cooling location or transportation can call 2-1-1 for assistance. Per Multnomah County, it is a good idea to double-check schedules before heading out and to stay tuned to the forecast as temperatures climb.
