Several Portland Snow Chances Through New Year's

By Rod Hill on 2021-12-13

An active December with low mountain snow levels and a threat of low elevation snow in the coming days is a weather story that may hang around through the new year. 

Snow levels have been near 1,000’ over the Coast Range with cold snow pockets in the hills of the west slope.  Meanwhile, snow level over the Cascades has generally been holding just above 1,500 feet.  Mountain passes over both ranges show snow cover on this Monday. 

The current fetch of moisture will break into widely scattered showers Monday overnight, allowing temps to lower to near freezing in Portland and Salem.  All low elevation areas could see flurries with lingering shower.  During the day Tuesday, mostly dry weather will bring a break from active weather with valley temps warming into the 30s. 

The next weather system arrives Wednesday morning as a low center approaches the coast.  Eastwinds are likely to pull through the gorge into the valley, bringing the possibility of a morning rain-snow mix at low elevations, including Portland.  At this time, the valley flow is expect to hold above freezing and see a possible early wintry mix change to all rain during the day with high temps reaching 40 degrees or better.  FUTURECAST from KGW TV does show accumulating snow in the West Hills Wednesday morning and possibly other high hills above 500 feet.  Worst case scenario would see 6” accumulate in the hills before moisture tapers off Wednesday evening.  Odds possible accumulations of no more than 3", followed by a wet mix or transition to afternoon rain. 

Our local weather may see several snow chances through New Year’s weekend.  A cold front Wednesday December 22nd may open the door for cold Canadian air and at least some snow possibility into Christmas weekend at lowest elevations.  As cold air gathering in Canada advects southward, our local chance for valley snow will be heightened in the coming weeks.   For now, keep yourself updated for possible winter weather 
in the days and weeks ahead. 

Meteorologist Rod Hill