Snow possible in Portland hills, rain returns after January dry spell

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Snow is possible in Portland’s West Hills and rain is forecast for the Willamette Valley this weekend after a potentially record-setting January dry spell.

KOIN 6 Meteorologist Kelley Bayern forecasts colder, wetter weather moving into the region by Friday. If temperatures are cold enough, there’s a chance of mixed rain and snow showers in Portland’s low-lying areas. However, it’s too early to predict Portland’s weekend temperature forecast.

“At this point in the forecast, snow is most likely to accumulate above 1,000 feet in the Willamette Valley,” Bayern said. “However, weather models are still uncertain on how cold we could get in Portland. Right now there's a chance for a rain and snow mix by Sunday morning for the Portland metro area.”

What is certain, is that the Cascades are forecast for another round of heavy snow this weekend. Current weather models show around 2 feet of fresh powder falling on Mount Hood by Sunday night.

In the Willamette Valley, rain is possible as early as Thursday. However, if the weather remains dry into Friday morning, Portland will have set a record for the most consecutive January days without precipitation, at 18. The weekend forecast will become more predictable in the coming days.

“With many changes still possible, keep your eyes on the forecast with the KOIN 6 weather team as we follow the chance for winter weather back in Portland this weekend,” Bayern said.