Snowy Christmas Good Possibility - Maybe Oregon / Washington Coast Later

Published 12/22/21 at 5:42 AM PST
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Oregon Coast) – The entire northwestern portion of the state is looking at the possibility of snow over the weekend, from the valley floor of places like Portland and Salem, to the Oregon Coast Range and even the possibility of snow on the Oregon coast and south Washington coast later in the week. Outside of that forecast is the southern Oregon coast, but even the upper parts of Highway 38 to Reedsport are looking at some snow in the predictions. (Photo courtesy Seaside Aquarium)

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a special weather statement for every town through the western Gorge, from Portland to Long Beach, and from Florence over to Eugene. Everyone from Kelso to Yachats are looking at the possibilities of a white Christmas, with some more certain than others.

“The forecast is looking increasingly wintry for southwest Washington and northwest Oregon as we head into the Christmas weekend and next week,” the NWS said. “While the details remain uncertain, confidence is increasing that a prolonged period of below normal temperatures will begin this weekend, lasting well into the next week.”

There is a good possibility for snow and ice in the valley lowlands as early as Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, but things turn much colder next week. The NWS said there is a high probability of snow reaching the lowest elevations of southwest Washington and northwest Oregon, even accumulating in the early week.

Holiday travel will be effected.

“Finer details such as the timing of any snow threats, or snow accumulations from any particular system, are impossible to know at this point,” the NWS said. “The more important message at this time is that anyone with travel plans for Christmas Eve through next week should be prepared for winter travel conditions and be prepared for delays. Even more so, routinely check the forecast for the latest changes and updates.”

See Oregon Coast Weather - Washington Coast Weather

See Oregon Coast Road, Traffic Conditions, Updates

The heaviest snow will be in the Cascades and then quite a bit in the Oregon Coast Range and Willapa Hills, even as far south as the higher elevations of Highway 38. Even the beach towns may receive some dustings.

“With the possibilities of snow down to sea level increasing, the challenge will be to determine the details of potential winter weather and the impacts across the region,” the NWS said.

On Monday and Tuesday, the NWS is currently showing “snow showers” in the forecasts for the Oregon Coast Range, but as previously indicated the accumulation amounts are as yet unknown. Snow levels are predicted to drop below 1,000 feet and even 500 feet at times from Friday through the early week.

Oregon Coast Hotels for this - South Coast Hotels - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours

MORE PHOTOS BELOW

Photo courtesy Haystack Rock Awareness Program

More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging.....

More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining.....

LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles

Back to Oregon Coast

Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net
All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted