By Rod Hill on 2012-01-16
This is your head's up, that a large area of Pacific moisture will bring heavy rain, strong winds and heavy snow to our area late Tuesday - Wednesday. Below are the Headlines I am tracking:
1. High Winds At The Coast: Peak gusts starting early Wednesday may reach 100 mph. Gusty winds, over 50 mph may continue much of the day. A 2nd period of high winds will be possible Friday.
2. Possible Snow Storm In The Gorge: There is a likely chance that temperatures will be below freezing Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. If so, the Gorge could easily get a foot of snow, with heavy accumulation making travel on I-84 difficult. An icy mix will be possible. The snow level will sharply rise Wednesday afternoon or early evening.
3. Portland - Salem metro area: The forecast snow level is uncertain. There is reason to believe, we will see heavy snow late Tuesday & into Wednesday at all elevations, so please keep updated for possible winter storm conditions. With that said, I believe the following is most likely: Tuesday morning will see a mix of rain & snow showers below 500 feet. Above, 500 feet, snow accumulation will be possible during the day, as moisture increases. Moisture will become steady Tuesday night. Areas below 500' will remain above freezing with mostly rain. Hills above 500' could see snow & ice accumulation of 3-8". Wednesday will see warm air eventually arrive with snow levels jumping to 2,000', but the timing is uncertain. So, if you live above 500', please be prepared for winter storm conditions Tuesday evening - Wednesday afternoon.
Once again, the valley forecast is uncertain, please keep updated for changing conditions. If you live above 500 feet, you may see heavy snow accumulations. If the snow level rises quickly enough, all hills near and under 1,000' would only see a few inches before rain dominates.
Typical Scenario With West Wind Flow