We know the question on your mind, Portlanders — when’s it going to cool off, and when will the trees change color?
Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in our city for September, October, and November.
While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what fall will bring.
Reminder: The first day of fall is on Sunday, Sept. 22.
Temperature
Predictions are about as clear as a foggy morning along the Willamette River. This fall, Portland has equal chances for temperatures to be higher than normal or lower than normal. We’ll just keep our flannel and flip flops on deck.
Precipitation
Expect more precipitation. Portland is riding the line between having a 33-40% chance and a 40-50% chance of seeing above-normal snow and rainfall amounts this fall. You should probably dust off those jackets (or umbrellas, if you dare).
Drought
Drought conditions are not expected for this season.
September
Typically in Portland, September’s temperatures fluctuate between an average low of 53° and an average high of 76°, but you can usually count on a day or two to reach 90°. Expect cool but frost-free mornings, perfect for early, weekend hikes in Hoyt Arboretum. From the month’s start to finish, we’ll lose 1.5 hours of daylight.
October
Trips to the PSU Farmers Market are usually framed by golden leaves in October when the average daily temperatures continue to trend lower toward the 46°-64° range. Rainfall chances continue to climb, but expect this year to be on the lower end of the typical spectrum of 2.6 to 5 inches.
November
Historically, average highs in November drop approx. 12° to 52°, with an average low of 41°. About once every 10 years, the thermometer stays below freezing the entire day — let’s hope that’s not the case. Regardless, you’ll definitely want to bundle up if you head to Wine Country Thanksgiving.