After appearing to lessen on Tuesday morning, the chance of snow in the Willamette Valley is increasing again, potentially impacting Wednesday afternoon commutes.
Snowfall Potential Across the Region
The National Weather Service in Portland reports “moderate confidence for several inches of accumulating snow with travel impacts” somewhere within the Willamette Valley, including the Portland metropolitan area. Meteorologist David Bishop stated on Tuesday afternoon that there is a 45 to 60% chance of one to two inches or more of snowfall across the I-5 corridor.
However, the exact location of the heaviest snowfall remains uncertain. The National Weather Service acknowledges difficulty in predicting where a low-pressure band will ultimately set up and deliver snow.
Uncertainty in the Forecast
According to Bishop, the models currently used are “not in great agreement at all as to the path that the low will take,” which is key to determining where the snow will fall. Three potential tracks are being monitored. Track 2, considered the most likely scenario, has a 40% chance of occurring. Tracks 1 and 3, which would bring snow further north and south respectively, each have a 20% probability.
A 40 to 65% chance of measurable snow exists along the I-5 corridor from Wednesday through noon on Thursday. The most likely scenario suggests snowfall will impact the central coast, the central and northern Willamette Valley, the Columbia River Gorge and the Portland and Vancouver areas.
Looking Ahead
Even with the uncertainty, the possibility of snow disrupting the Wednesday evening commute remains. Regardless of Wednesday’s weather, temperatures are expected to rise on Thursday, with a high of 45 degrees in Portland, suggesting any snow or ice will not persist for long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current confidence level for snowfall?
The National Weather Service reports “moderate confidence for several inches of accumulating snow with travel impacts” somewhere in the Willamette Valley.
What is the probability of snowfall along I-5?
There is a 40 to 65% chance that measurable snow will fall somewhere along I-5 starting Wednesday and through noon on Thursday.
What is the expected high temperature for Thursday in Portland?
The high temperature in Portland on Thursday is expected to be 45 degrees.
As the forecast continues to evolve, how will you prepare for potential winter weather conditions in your area?
