7:39 PM Tue, Dec 09, 2008 | Permalink
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That's what we call an approaching snow storm or even chance of snow headed our way here at the big 8 ski. Yes-- I know it's a bit on the macabre side. Call it what you want, colder air and a chance-- I think a good chance of snow is on the way later this week.
Snow is the toughest thing to forecast in Portland. Everything has to line up just right, for the white stuff to hit the valley floor. Even then I think a dispensation from the Pope is needed for flakes to fly in Portland. (it's ok I was raised Catholic)
Cold air will begin to pour into the Pacific Northwest Friday. Moisture will also arrive starting in the form of rain
By Saturday morning plenty of cold arctic air is in place. Snow could be as low as the valley floor. As the storm front moves east snowfall will taper off mid-day. However the cold air will remain in place. On the valley floor I don't see a lot of accumulation. In higher elevations that's a different story.
Right now I'll go with an inch maybe two at the lowest elevations, In the Coast Range up to 12" is Possible. The Cascades get walloped, over 24" of snow could fall on Mt. Hood.
I'm forecasting temperatures just above freezing Saturday Afternoon. So snow on the valley floor will turn to slush, then re-freeze Saturday night. Temperatures Sunday morning will be in the teens! As you can see on the 7day forecast I don't see us warming anytime soon.
Cold air may stay in place through late next week. Ol' man winter may have taken his time getting here but when he arrives it will be with a bang! No make that a brrrr- instead.
Dave
We woke up to snow falling at 7:30 a.m. this morning on the Oregon City Hilltop just off Beavercreek Road. Snow is falling and sticking, lights are on the tree, kids are cozy and telling Christmas stories. What a perfect way to start the day!