Is there snow in Portland, Oregon?Most folks don’tthink of Portland,Oregon as a very snowy place, and rightly so! Portland has a temperate climate, with dry, warm summers and chilly, rainy winters with plenty of rain but minimal snow.ThecityofPortland,Oregonistransformedintoamysticalsettingfullofcharmanddelightwhenitsnows,creatingapicturesquewinterwonderland.
Butdo you know how often does it snow in Portland, Oregon?Portland receives an average of 4.3 inches of snow each year. January has the most snow in Portland, with an average snowfall of 2.4 inches. We will discuss this more in this article.
December is thecoldest month in Portland, Oregon, with an average low of 36°F and a high of 45°F. The average sliding 31-day snowfall in Portland during December is growing, beginning the month at 1.0 inches and rarely exceeding 3.6 inches, and ending the month at 2.9 inches and rarely exceeding 12.8 inches. Let’s discuss more in detail in this article:
Table of Contents
Does it Snow in Portland Oregon, in December?
In Portland, Oregon, December is a month of harsh weather. This is the year’s coldest, cloudiest, rainiest, and snowiest month.
Snow is morelikely to fall in Portlandin December than in any other month. Despite this, Portland usually receives no new snow during the month. However, one out of every four December, the city gets 2 inches (5 cm) or more new snow.
On average, Portland has only one day in December when the quantity of snow on the ground is an inch (2.5 cm) or more.
Does it Snow in Portland, Oregon?
Yes, it does, but theannual snowfall in Portland, Oregon, is very little each winter because it is almost usually too warm for snow to fall there these days. So it’s not unusual for us to go a year without snow. However, every year, we get about 7 inches of snow. It usually manifests itself in one or two incidents.
Snowfall is heavier in locations with some elevation, such as the West Hills, western Washington County near the Coast Range, or Clackamas County as you approach closer to the Cascades. And, of course, there’s the Gorge, which is a particular instance in and of itself.
Portlanders keep themselves entertained during these snowstorms by playing drinking games, cross-country skiing, rejoicing or moaning on social media, or sledding.
When does it Snow in Portland, Oregon?
From November 30 to February 16, the snowy season lasts 2.6 months, with a typical 31-day snowfall of at least 1.0 inches. January has the most snow in Portland, with an average snowfall of 2.4 inches. The snowless season lasts 9.5 months, from February 16 to November 30.
The average sliding 31-day snowfall in Portland declines during January, starting at 2.9 inches when it seldom exceeds 12.5 inches and finishing at 1.7 inches when it rarely exceeds 5.2 inches.
The average sliding 31-day snowfall in Portland during December is growing, beginning the month at 1.0 inches and rarely exceeding 3.6 inches, and ending the month at 2.9 inches and rarely exceeding 12.8 inches.
How much does it Snow in Portland, Oregon?
Temperatures typically range between 40 and 60 degrees, which is cool enough for a warm fall sweater and a nice insulated jacket. In addition, Portland receives 3 inches of snow per year on average.
How cold does it get in Portland, Oregon?
It rarely drops below freezing, but it does happen a few times a year for a few days.Winter in Portland, Oregonbegins in mid-November and lasts until mid-March. Temperatures range from highs in the 50s to lows in the 40s during the day.
It will drop below freezing numerous times and frequently reach the low 20s for a day or two. It rains a lot during these four months, but the temperatures aren’t as harsh as those in other parts of the country’s interior.
Does it Snow in Coos Bay, Oregon?
Coos Bay, Oregon, receives 64 inches of rain per year on average. However, Coos Bay gets0inchesof snow each year on average.
Year-Round Climate and Average Weather in Coos Bay, Oregon, United States Summers in Coos Bay are pleasant, dry, and mainly clear, while winters are cold, damp, and cloudy. Throughout the year, the temperature ranges typically from 40°F to 68°F, with temperatures rarely falling below 32°F or rising over 73°F.
What do you need to Know to Get Home Safe when there is Snow in Portland?
Here are some safety tips when there is snow in Portland:
Driving safety tips
TheCity of Portland’s Snow and Ice Plan discourages the use of private vehicles and instead promotes public transportation. However, we acknowledge that some communities at high elevations may have unexpected snow or ice, and everyone should be prepared for winter circumstances. The Portland Bureau of Transportation provides these suggestions.See more Here.
Chains are your lifeline to safety:
Purchase chains, practice putting them on your car, keep them in your vehicle, and use them. You may require them unexpectedly, particularly in Portland locations higher than 500 feet above sea level. On West Burnside and SW Sam Jackson Parkway, PBOT may require chains or traction devices.
Carry an emergency weather kit with you:
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle to keep you safe and comfortable during extended waits. Chains, a shovel, a bag of sand, battery jumper cables, a first aid kit, essential tools (pliers, wrench, screwdriver, and knife), a blanket, extra clothes (hats, stockings, boots, mittens), a flashlight, and a cell phone or CB radio should all be included in your package.
Expect slippery sidewalks; clear your own as well:
The sidewalk in front of your neighbor’s house may be the slickest surface you encounter during a winter storm. The PBOT deploys anti-icer and snowplows to clear streets along bus routes; however, it is the responsibility of property owners to provide safe passage on sidewalks.
Keep an eye out for those riding bicycles or walking:
Keep an eye out for pedestrians and bicycles attempting to navigate in hazardous, poor visibility circumstances. Share the road responsibly and safely.
Snow in Portland Oregon – FAQs
What months does it snow in Portland, Oregon?
From November 30 to February 16, the snowy season lasts 2.6 months, with a typical 31-day snowfall of at least 1.0 inches. January has the most snow in Portland, with an average snowfall of 2.4 inches. The snowless season lasts 9.5 months, from February 16 to November 30.
Will it snow in Portland on Christmas?
Christmas Day will bring a combination of snow and rain, with up to a half-inch of snow falling and then melting. The high temperature in Portland will reach the upper 30s, and the quantity of snow that falls will vary across the city.
When was the last time it snowed on Christmas Day in Portland, Oregon?
The last time measurable snow fell on Christmas Day in Portland was in 2008; however, they did have an inch of snow on the ground in 2017, thanks to a storm the day before.
Will it snow in Portland 2021?
Yes, from November 2021 through October 2022. Winter temperatures will be milder than usual, with less precipitation and snowfall than normal. Early December, late December into early January, and mid-January and early March will be the coldest months. The snowiest months will be late December and early March.
Conclusion:
After knowing that significant snow within the city limits is indeed a rare event, you should know that traveling in poor winter weather is not to go at all. Wait till the weather improves before stepping out in the winter. Allow snowplows, sanding trucks, and other emergency vehicles to arrive ahead of you to treat the situation. Allow extra time to get to your destination.
FAQs
Does it snow in Portland in the winter? ›
Average snowfall in Portland is around 3 inches (8 cm) of snow annually, well below the country's average of 28 inches (71 cm).
Does it snow a lot in Portland Oregon? ›Does it snow in Portland? Yes, but not every year — average snowfall is 4.3″ per year. In fact, snow happens so infrequently, I never put my money on it. (The exception being February 2021 — here's some photos!)
Is snow rare in Portland? ›We lingered for 4+ hours because we couldn't convince ourselves to turn back, snow in Portland is so rare!
How many months does it snow in Portland Oregon? ›Portland experiences some seasonal variation in monthly snowfall. The snowy period of the year lasts for 2.6 months, from November 30 to February 16, with a sliding 31-day snowfall of at least 1.0 inches. The month with the most snow in Portland is January, with an average snowfall of 2.4 inches.
What are winters in Portland like? ›Winter in Portland is the coolest season of the year, with frequent rain showers and mostly cloudy skies. Temperatures remain mild by North American standards and significant snowfall is rare within Portland city limits.
Does it snow more in Portland or Seattle? ›Why does Seattle rarely see much of the white stuff, while in Portland heavier snowfall is more of a winter regularity? “Put simply, we're a warmer city,” said Chris Burke, weather-service meteorologist. “The air over Seattle never gets cold enough.”
What part of Oregon gets snow? ›Snowfall in Oregon is greatest in the Cascade Range. Based on data from ski resorts and a few official weather stations, average annual snowfall in the Cascades can range from 300 to 550 inches (760 to 1,400 cm).
What is the snowiest town in Oregon? ›Mount Hood Village is also the snowiest town in Oregon. It gets about 59.5 inches of snow per year on average. That may not sound like a lot to people from out of state, but for Oregon, it's a lot!
Where in Oregon does it not snow? ›Roseburg, nestled in a spur of the western Cascades in the southern part of the state, rarely accumulates snow, and the Pelton Dam area on the Deschutes River near Warm Springs sees fewer than ten inches of precipitation a year.
What is the biggest snowfall in Portland Oregon? ›The crown jewel of snowiest days recorded in Portland was Jan. 21, 1943, at 14.4″. KOIN 6 meteorologist Josh Cozart captured some stunning drone footage of the snowfall in Portland and shows snow-covered roadways. The full video can be viewed in the player above.
What year did Portland Oregon have the most snow? ›
The most snow recorded in Portland was 14.4 inches on January 21, 1943. More than a decade later, the city saw 9.3 inches of snow in 1956, 8 inches in 1964 and 7.7 inches in 1951.
How common is snow in Oregon? ›Along the coast the average annual snowfall is only one to three inches, with many years in which there is no measurable amount. In the inland western valleys most yearly totals average between 10 to 15 inches, with snow on the ground seldom lasting more than two to three days at a time.
Is Portland still a good place to live? ›Portland is a Great City to Live In
First of all, there's a reason why people keep moving to Portland: it's an amazing city. You can drive an hour and a half west to get to the ocean or an hour east to be in the mountains. Portland is renowned for livability, food and drink, arts and culture, and much more.
Summary of cost of living in Portland, OR, United States: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 4,595.1$ without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,297.8$ without rent. Portland is 11.8% less expensive than New York (without rent).
How many seasons does Portland have? › Is Portland fun in the winter? ›While summer is peak tourist season in Portland – who can resist those wonderfully warm-but-not-hot and comfortably dry temperatures – here's a tip: winter is also a terrific time to visit. Sure, the weather might be marked by overcast skies and drizzly rain, but there's still plenty to experience and enjoy.
Should I go to Portland in winter? ›If you're looking to score a bargain on a hotel, consider a winter trip. Chilly temperatures repel sightseers, but Portland's proximity to Mount Hood makes it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll find a variety of niche local events to choose from.
Is Portland warmer than Seattle in winter? ›Located three hours south of Seattle, Portland suffers through the same dark northwest winters, but to a slightly lesser degree.
Is it more expensive to live in Portland or Seattle? ›When it comes to the benefits of Portland vs. Seattle, Portland wins on affordable living. It is much more affordable with home prices at a median of $451,000. This is much less than the median home price in Seattle, which is $758,200.
Is Seattle or Portland a better place to live? ›Seattle is a bit more expensive, but safer. Porland is a bit more affordable and unique, though considered less peaceful. Finding an apartment for rent in Seattle or Portland is a great decision either way, as they are two of the most sought-after cities to live in!
Why is Portland colder than Seattle? ›
With cold air in place and a nearby Jetstream, it set the stage for heavy snow in the Willamette Valley. Bottom line? It's been colder in Portland thanks to their proximity to the Columbia River Gorge, and the Jetstream has been closer to them giving better opportunities for snowfall.
Does it snow in Oregon yes or no? ›Most of the snow in Oregon falls on the Cascade Mountains, which run north to south through the state and extend into Washington and northern California. The higher elevations of Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson receive the most snowfall, with up to 600 inches each year in some spots.
Does Portland get snow? ›Portland's average annual snowfall is 4.5 inches per year. See our Winter Weather Center for an interactive map of our snow and ice routes and for real-time weather and road closure information.
What state gets the most snow? ›The snowiest state of all is New Hampshire, which gets an average of 174.35 inches of snow each year. This is followed by Maine, which gets 92 inches annually and Vermont, with 80.2 inches. Alaska and Wyoming come next, with 79.6 and 77.33 inches respectively.
What is the number 1 snowiest city in the US? ›The town with the most snow is: Valdez, Alaska with 279.4 inches per year, on average. Another stand-out is Blue Canyon, CA with a historical average of 241.7 inches per year!
What is the snowiest big city in America? ›1. Syracuse, New York. What is this? Lake effect propels Syracuse easily into the number one spot as the snowiest city in the US.
What is the snowiest city in the US? ›1. Syracuse, New York: 127.8 inches. Syracuse takes home the crown as the snowiest city in America, averaging 127.8 inches each winter. That's just shy of 11 feet of snow, most of which is courtesy of the large body of water to its northwest: Lake Ontario.
Are winters bad in Oregon? ›Winter temperatures are the coldest, with minus temps not uncommon. Rainfall is limited, and it is very dry here, although summer thunderstorms can occur. The Columbia Gorge is windy all year long, and in winter ice storms may occur.
What state never gets snow? ›Where Has It Never Snowed In the U.S.? Extreme South Florida: Within the “Sunshine State,” no city south of Homestead has ever observed snow. Florida's low latitude and low elevation mean temperatures rarely get cold enough for snow to fall, let alone accumulate on the ground.
What city in Oregon has the best climate? ›Klamath Falls, located near the California border and close to the Willamette National Forest, boasts Oregon's sunniest city, with the best climate in the state. Klamath Falls has well over 300 days of sunshine per year, earning it the title “City of Sunshine” in Oregon.
What is the coldest ever in Portland? ›
- Updated 1-15-11.
- Rank Temperature Date . 1. - 39 degrees February 16, 1943. 2. - 31 degrees February 15, 1943. 3. - ...
- Months not listed above: 3 degrees on November 24, 1969. 8 degrees on April 4, 1954. 15 degrees on October 28, 1976. 23 degrees on May 9, 1956. ...
- Note… temperature records began November 25, 1940. end/sjc.
The National Weather Service says the coldest temperature recorded in Oregon came Feb. 10, 1933, in Seneca. The recording? Negative 54 degrees.
When did it snow in Portland 2023? ›Hello all. In my long-winded post last week I talked about the unexpected snowstorm we got on Wednesday February 22nd. While the forecast said there was a chance of flurries, instead we got ten inches, the biggest one-day total in about 80 years.
What was the rainiest year in Portland Oregon? ›In short: the weather's unpredictable. Portland International Airport's official rain-gauge records, which begin in 1939, show that the city has seen more than 50 inches of rain in a year four times, the first one coming in 1950 and the most recent in 2012. The wettest year was 1996, with 63.2 inches.
What was the earliest snowfall in Portland? ›Data from the National Weather Service shows that Portland typically sees its first snowfall in late December of any given year. The average first “snow event” (when at least 0.1 inches of snow falls) is Dec. 26 — though the very earliest the city saw snow was Nov. 11, 1955.
When was it hottest in Portland Oregon? ›| Max °F | Date | Max °C |
|---|---|---|
| 102 | July 26, 2022 | 39 |
| 114 | June 28, 2021 | 46 |
| 99 | August 15, 2020 + | 37 |
| 98 | June 12, 2019 | 37 |
| Category | Average Annual Per-Capita Cost in Oregon |
|---|---|
| Housing and Utilities | $8,924 |
| Health Care | $7,956 |
| Food and Beverage (non-restaurant) | $4,104 |
| Gas and Energy Goods | $1,030 |
Tornados happen in Oregon during the milder months, but they are few and far between. There are only about 3 tornados that occur each year in Oregon.
Is Oregon good to live in? ›If you're wondering, "is Oregon a good place to live?" Well, you're in luck! Oregon is a unique state with a lot to offer its residents. From the stunning mountain ranges, evergreen forests, and breathtaking beaches to its lively cities and charming towns, Oregon living has something for everyone.
Why are so many people leaving Portland? ›Not only are individual residents being driven out by a falling quality of life and soaring crime, but also entire corporations. Businesses are struggling given the 11.1% increase in year-over-year property crime and 16.9% rise in burglaries last year, as seen in Portland Police Bureau data.
How bad is the homeless problem in Portland? ›
How big is the problem? According to the 2022 official point in time count, thousands of people are living unsheltered on our streets, and unsheltered homelessness in Portland increased by 50% from 2019 to 2022. Far too many in our city are living in dangerous and squalid conditions.
Is everyone moving out of Portland? ›Portland Population Decreased in 2021
Then the U.S. Census Bureau for Portland showed that Portland city proper (not its suburbs) lost 11,000 residents from July 2020 to July 2021 (numbers are not yet updated for 2022). In 2021, the population growth within Portland city limits had slowed considerably.
West Portland Park
The absolute cheapest neighborhood in Portland (as of January 2022) is West Portland Park. Considered one of the best neighborhoods in the city, West Portland Park consists mainly of young families and professionals who travel into the city for work.
Monthly electric bills are a product of how much electricity you use per month and your electric rate. In Portland, OR, the average monthly electric bill for residential customers is $153/month, which is calculated by multiplying the average monthly consumption by the average electric rate: 988 kWh * 16 ¢/kWh.
Are groceries expensive in Oregon? ›Grocery costs
Groceries are not inexpensive in Oregon. Food will cost you about 8 percent more than the national average.
The show shared its title with the sculpture of the same name that sits above the entrance of the Portland Building on Fifth Avenue in downtown Portland, which appears in the show's title sequence.
How many rainy days does Portland have? ›130 days of rain sounds like a lot, but that's only a little over a third of the year. And, an average day of Portland rain is generally that light morning drizzle. You go out and the windshield of your car is a little wet, but the rest of the day is pretty dry.
Does Portland Oregon have a rainy season? ›Rain is a part of life during the winter months. Nearly 90 percent of the annual rainfall occurs between mid-October and mid-May. In fact, only about 3 percent of our rain occurs in July and August. It is not uncommon to see relatively dry summers in Portland.
Does Portland Oregon get snow in December? ›Most years, Portland receives no fresh snow for the month. In one out of four Decembers, the city gets 1 inch (2.5 cm) or more of fresh snow. Portland has two days in December, on average, when the snow accumulated on the ground amounts to an inch (2.5 cm) or more.
Does it snow in Oregon in winter? ›Annual snowfall along the coastal plain averages 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm) a year, including years with none. Further inland, between the Coast Range and the Cascades, snowfall generally averages from 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 cm) a year.
Has it ever snowed on Christmas day in Portland Oregon? ›
While there have been trace amounts on Christmas during those 74 years, only one Christmas was truly white, and that was 2008, variously called the "Arctic Blast" and "The Snowpocalypse."
When was the last time it snowed in Portland on Christmas day? ›A Christmas with snow is a rare event in the Portland area. Between 1940 and 2022, only two years (2008 and 2017) stands out as a truly 'white, snowy' Christmas. To be a white Christmas, snow must be falling and accumulating, or snow still remains on the ground Christmas morning.
Is Portland cold in November? ›The average temperature in Portland in November for a typical day ranges from a high of 51°F (10°C) to a low of 38°F (4°C). Some would describe it as cold with a gentle breeze.
Is Portland Oregon warmer than Seattle? ›It gets hotter in Portland than it does in Seattle. Portland's highs range from 46°F to 80°F and Seattle's highs range from 46°F to 72°F. It rains nearly half the month in the wet, wintery season. In the summer, it rains about two days on average in Portland and three or four days on average in Seattle.
Is it cheaper to live in Portland or Seattle? ›The cost of living in Seattle, WA is 9.0% higher than in Portland, OR. You would have to earn a salary of $65,416 to maintain your current standard of living. Employers in Seattle, WA typically pay 5.9% more than employeers in Portland, OR.
Why does Portland get more snow than Seattle? ›With cold air in place and a nearby Jetstream, it set the stage for heavy snow in the Willamette Valley. Bottom line? It's been colder in Portland thanks to their proximity to the Columbia River Gorge, and the Jetstream has been closer to them giving better opportunities for snowfall.
What part of Oregon does not get snow? ›Roseburg, nestled in a spur of the western Cascades in the southern part of the state, rarely accumulates snow, and the Pelton Dam area on the Deschutes River near Warm Springs sees fewer than ten inches of precipitation a year.
How should I dress for Portland in winter? ›Portland Winter Weather
When visiting Portland in the winter, consider packing a sporty waterproof jacket and a beanie hat to help keep you warm on outdoor adventures. Add a pair of cool cropped jeans (we love these styles from Moussy) to fit the Portland vibe.
The best time to visit Portland is from June to September when the weather is warm and dry and the music and beer festivals are on. The roses bloom through the summer months, so book early as this is also the busiest time of year for tourists.
Should I visit Portland in December? ›Is December a good time to visit Portland? Yes, December is a great time to visit Portland! Cooler temperatures provide the perfect excuse to do as locals do and indulge in Portland's legendary culinary scene. Or, take advantage of tax-free holiday shopping throughout the city.