By Rod Hill on 2014-11-11
The National Weather Service has issued a HIGH WIND WARNING for Tuesday & Wednesday across the Portland metro. Strong east wind gusts may reach 50-60 mph. Areas near the Columbia River and the east of I-5 will see the strongest winds. Power outages and down trees will be possible. Salem is not included in the wind warning, but may see gusty winds to 40 mph at times.
Wind gusts in the Columbia River Gorge may reach 75 mph and higher at upper elevations. The east wind will lower dew points into the teens Tuesday night, making freezing temperatures possible in the metro as moisture arrives Wednesday night and Thursday. A mix of snow and ice will be possible. Please realize the temperature forecast is very uncertain. Strong east winds may hold temps well above freezing, which would mean Thursday rain.
Thursday travel in the Gorge will likely encounter winter conditions. Snow and ice may also accumulate along the east slopes of the Coast Range. To repeat, all of the metro valley of Portland and Salem could see a mix of snow and ice arriving early Thursday morning and continuing during the day.
Rod Hill
Warmest October on Record!