We know the question on your mind, Portlanders — when’s it going to snow again? 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 December, January, and February. 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 winter will bring.
Reminder: The first day of winter is Wednesday, Dec. 21.
🌡️ Temperature
Think cold. This winter, Portland has a 33-40% chance of temperatures being lower than normal, although the city sits very close to the line where that figure could jump to 40-50%.
🌨️ Precipitation
Expect slightly more precipitation. Portland has a 33-40% chance of seeing higher-than-average snow and rainfall totals this winter.
Generally, December is the coldest month of the year in Portland, with temperatures ranging between an average low of 34.7° and an average high of 44.1°. Snow records have already fallen this month — 0.1" was measured at the airport on Dec. 4 — but typical accumulation is just a meager 0.28". We’re still crossing our fingers for a white Christmas.
In January, the average high and low temps are between 46.2° and 35.2°. Your dry skin may beg to differ, but the average relative humidity in January is 83%, with just over 18 days and 4.33" of rainfall expected. If you tend to enjoy the warm orb in the sky, you might want to plan a vacation — with an average of 4.1 hours of sunshine a day, January has the least sunshine of the year.
Average temperatures fluctuate between 47.5° and 35.8° throughout February, which makes it an ideal time to enjoy indoor events like the Portland Jazz Festival or FAN EXPO Portland. You may have love in your eyes, but you won’t have to worry about the sun — the average UV index of 2 poses a low threat to health.
