By Rod Hill on 2009-12-30
Let me start by saying, the forecast issued last night for today called for rain - not snow. I have worked here in Portland for 10 years and each year, usually Salem and or Forest Grove get a surprise snowstorm, matching what happened to day across the entire metro areas. A simple Pacific front promising rain, catches the valley on a day that temperatures did not rise as forecasted. The result of course is snow! As a forecaster, I will tell you there are dozens of episodes during the winter months that a Pacific front arrives when temperatures are in the 30s and most of the time, as forecasted the temperatures remain around 36 or so and nothing falls but rain. What happened today is an event that you truly cannot depict until the morning of, when you witness the surface temperatures lock. I saw the "lock" this morning around 10:00 am when the moisture was approaching Salem. It is true, that I could have done a better job last night, noting the chilly morning and a potential winter threat, but to be over cautious all the time does not serve the forecast very well either. So there you have my comments for whatever they are worth. As always, I extend my apologies for a missed forecast.
Snow reports: Hillsboro 5", SW Portland 3.2", PDX 1.8", Hazel Dell 3", Oregon City 2", Salem 2". The Portland metro average was 2-3" across the city.
Sunshine A Rare Treat