Is there snow in Portland, Oregon? Most folks don’t think 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. The city of Portland, Oregon is transformed into a mystical setting full of charm and delight when it snows, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.
But do 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 the coldest 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:
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 more likely to fall in Portland in 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 the annual 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, Oregon begins 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 gets 0 inches of 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
The City 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
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.
