Willamette Valley cities could see some snow in the air early next week but are unlikely to see major accumulations on the valley floor, according to the National Weather Service.
A combination of cold air and moisture off the ocean will provide the chance for low elevation snow multiple times next week. But at least for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, “significant impact is not looking likely,” NWS meteorologist Thomas Schuldt said.
However, as you increase in elevation above 500 and up toward 1,000 feet in more rural areas or city hills, accumulating snow becomes more likely, he added. That could lead to school delays or cancellations in some areas.
“As of now, at the lowest elevations, I think it’s safe to say we’re likely to see some snow in the air, maybe some slush in the grass, particularly on Monday and Tuesday morning,” Schuldt said. “We’re not expecting much accumulation.”
Snowfall is slightly more likely in the Portland metro area, as it often is, due to colder winds coming in from the Columbia River Gorge. But Salem and Eugene will have similar chances for white.
This graphic from the National Weather Service in Portland details what elevations are expected to see snow versus rain.
Snow more likely above 500 and 1,000 feet in Willamette Valley
At the higher elevations, between 500 and 1,000 feet, there’s a greater chance of snow sticking around and having an impact.
“It would mean a little more accumulating overnight and it taking longer to melt out,” Schuldt said.
Fernanda Ruiz, 6, and Tomas Ruiz, 3, sled down a hill at Willamette University Jan. 15, 2024.
What are the chances of snow in the Willamette Valley later in the week?
Schuldt said temperatures are trending cooler later next week, from Wednesday night into Thursday and Friday, but the forecast hasn’t come into clear focus yet.
Forecasting Willamette Valley snow is notoriously tricky because the combination of cold air from the north and warmer moisture-filled air from the ocean means an often unpredictable outcome.
Oregon mountain roads to see continual snow showers
In the Cascade foothills, the Coast Range and the Cascade Range, snow is likely to fall all across next week and accumulate on roadways. No major storms are predicted, and most days only show a few inches of snow forecast, but roads could be snowier and more slippery than normal at lower elevations.
“Anyone driving in the mountains should be prepared for snow and winter driving,” Schuldt said. “Check conditions before you head out and be aware of the forecast.”
Drivers can check TripCheck.com for current road conditions.
Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 18 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. He can be reached at [email protected] or (503) 399-6801. Find him on X at @ZachsORoutdoors.
This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Will the Willamette Valley get snow next week? Here’s the forecast
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