Portland, Oregon weather: Are you thinking about moving to Portland, Oregon and are curious what the weather is like? Read below for the truth about Portland, Oregon weather from our long cold wet winters to our stunning bloom filled springs, and the warm summertime nights!
WINTER
Winter usually starts mid November and runs into March. It rains A LOT during these months. The good news is that Portland’s temperatures in winter are considered mild compared to the mid-west and north eastern states. We do see some snow in Portland, but it is usually only a day or two with a trace or so at the valley floor. Higher elevations around the Portland metro area can see a couple of inches. In recent years, Portland has seen a few weather events that are worth mentioning. In 2017 and 2018 Portland saw over 4 inches of snow to the valley floor, with some higher elevations seeing up to 8 inches. Portland will also “ice over” occasionally. Again, these events are few and far between, but in February of 2021 Portland saw an unprecedented ice storm that left tens of thousands of residents without power for several days. Portland, Oregon weather in wintertime can be unpredictable, switching between sun, rain, snow and ice all in a matter of days.
SPRING
There is nothing quite like a Portland, Oregon spring! While we still see quite a bit of rain in the beginning of spring, that rain brings the most beautiful blooms throughout the city. Temperatures are in the 50s in March and April, 60s in May and by June we are seeing days reaching into the 70s. Our favorite thing to do during Portland’s springtime is to go see the cherry blossoms. A general rule of thumb, the best time to catch the stunning pink blooms in mid-March to mid-April. And while they can be found throughout town, there is nothing quite as iconic as a stroll through the trees at Tom McCall’s Waterfront Park.
SUMMER
Portland, Oregon weather in summertime offers warm sunny days and a few months of repreve from the gray rainy days. Local residence like to say that summer starts at the 4th of July and last through September. While we sometimes see warmer temps at the end of June, it is safe to say that July will be dry and warm and August will be hot. The average temperature is in the 80s, but we do go over 100 degrees a few times a year (usually in August). In 2021 we saw numerous record breaking days with temperatures reaching over 117 degrees throughout the Portland metro area. Portlanders LOVE our summers. With warm days, long hours of sunshine and mild evenings, it’s the best time of year to enjoy all the rivers, trails, bike paths and hikes our area offers along with day trips to our coasts and mountains.
FALL
Fall begins with mild temperatures around 60 degrees at the beginning of October. By late October, the city is chilly and around 60s degrees. By the end of October, Portland becomes chilly with more rain showers. While Portland is wet during the fall, it is also when our abundance of trees turn shades of firey red, sunset orange and vibrant yellow. From the tree lined streest of NW Portland, to the popular Japanese Gardens and the trails of Forest Park, there are endless options to stroll along the fall beauty.
RAIN
The number one question people ask about Portland’s weather is “Does it rain all the time in Portland?”. Newsflash: It rains A LOT in Portand. But, not all the time. Portland has long, wet winters and spring and fall showers. From October through May, Portlanders deal with rainy gray days, sometimes lasting for weeks on end. This is the reality of Portland rain, and while we love to complain about the weather here, we also look forward to the lush green springs and warm summers!
We hope this helps you get an idea of Portland, Oregon weather year round. If you need any sort of help in looking for a home in Portland just give us a ring and we will help you! Buyer’s Agent Portland can answer all your moving-related queries, ensuring you can move to Portland without any hassle.