Portland weather - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Rainy Season: Portland is known for its rainy weather, especially during the fall and winter months. The city receives an average of 37 inches of rain per year, with November being the wettest month.
- 2. Mild Summers: Portland experiences mild summers with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s. However, heatwaves are becoming more common in recent years, with temperatures occasionally reaching the 90s or even 100s.
- 3. Cloudy Days: Portland is known for its cloudy weather, particularly during the fall and winter months. The city averages around 144 cloudy days per year, with the cloudiest month being December.
- 4. Snowfall: Snow is rare in Portland, with the city typically receiving only a few inches of snow per year. However, when it does snow, it can cause significant disruptions to daily life as the city is not well-equipped to handle snow and ice.
- 5. Windstorms: Portland occasionally experiences strong windstorms, particularly during the fall and winter months. These storms can bring gusts of over 50 mph, causing power outages and damage to trees and structures.
- 6. Microclimates: Portland's weather can vary significantly from neighborhood to neighborhood due to its unique microclimates. The west side of the city tends to be cooler and wetter, while the east side is drier and warmer.
- 7. Spring Showers: Spring in Portland is characterized by frequent showers and rapidly changing weather patterns. Temperatures start to warm up in April and May, with the occasional sunny day mixed in with rain showers.
- 8. Foggy Mornings: Portland is known for its foggy mornings, particularly during the fall and winter months. The fog can linger throughout the day, reducing visibility and creating a moody atmosphere in the city.
- 9. Lush Greenery: Portland's rainy weather contributes to its lush greenery and vibrant plant life. The city is known for its beautiful parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets, which thrive in the mild, wet climate.
- 10. Climate Change: Portland, like many cities around the world, is experiencing the impacts of climate change. The city is seeing more extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, wildfires, and heavy rainfall, which are affecting the local environment and infrastructure. Portland is taking steps to mitigate these impacts and adapt to a changing climate.