Portland, Oregon – Residents across western Oregon and Washington should brace for another wet and windy week as a strong atmospheric river moves into the Pacific Northwest by Wednesday, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and the potential for minor flooding, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Portland.
Strong Atmospheric River Arriving Wednesday
Meteorologists are warning that multiple weather systems will move through the region this week, with the most significant one expected midweek. The incoming atmospheric river will deliver steady rain and gusty winds, especially across the Oregon Coast and western Washington.
“That midweek round of rain is looking heavy enough to cause problems around storm drains in your neighborhood again,” said Storm Tracker 2 Meteorologist Rhonda Shelby. “However, the highest impact will likely be along the coast.”
Winds Could Reach 55 MPH Along the Coast
According to NWS Portland, winds on Wednesday and Thursday are expected to peak between 30 to 40 mph inland and 50 to 55 mph along the coast. The strongest gusts could cause tree damage and power outages, though widespread impacts are not expected.
“This would be strong enough to result in some tree damage and power outages, but not strong enough for widespread impacts,” NWS officials said in their morning briefing.
Coastal Flooding Possible During King Tides
Along with the heavy rain, minor flooding could affect some coastal communities. Meteorologist Rhonda Shelby noted that the storm system will coincide with King Tides, the highest astronomical tides of the fall season.
“The storminess lines up with King Tides, so even routine coastal rainfall could push water levels higher than normal,” Shelby explained. “Low-lying streets, coastal highways, and harbor roads could see standing water during peak high tide on Wednesday.”
Rainfall Totals and Flooding Concerns in the Willamette Valley
Inland, the Willamette Valley is forecast to receive 2 to 3 inches of rain by Friday, with the potential for urban flooding due to clogged storm drains and fallen leaves.
Officials are urging residents to help reduce flood risks by clearing debris from drains and gutters ahead of the storm.
“Gusty winds will bring down more leaves, leading to drainage issues and localized flooding,” Shelby said as per KATU.
Snowfall in Washington Cascades
While snow is expected in the Washington Cascades, temperatures in the Oregon Cascades will stay too warm for accumulation. The NWS predicts heavy rain and strong winds in the mountain regions through Friday, which may create hazardous driving conditions for those traveling across higher elevations.
Safety Reminders for Residents
Local authorities are reminding residents to:
- Check and clear storm drains near their homes.
- Avoid flooded roads and never drive through standing water.
- Secure outdoor items like patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations that could blow away.
- Prepare for possible power outages by charging devices and keeping flashlights handy.
Preparing for a Stormy Week
The combination of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high tides could make midweek travel and commutes challenging. By the weekend, forecasters expect conditions to gradually improve, though scattered showers may linger into Saturday.
Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to local forecasts and weather alerts as conditions evolve.
How are you preparing for this week’s storms in Oregon and Washington? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
