Climate and monthly weather forecast
Oregon, USA

Oregon lies in the Pacific Northwest region and has a diverse geography that consists of numerous water bodies, deserts, shrublands, dense forests, mountains, and volcanoes. California in the south, the Pacific Ocean in the west, Washington in the north, Idaho in the east, and Nevada in the southeast share borders with the state. Western Oregon along the coast has an oceanic climate (Köppen climate classification Cfb) with wet summers, while the southwestern portion of the state has a Mediterranean (Köppen Csb) climate with hot summers; The northeastern portion has a steppe climate with subarctic (Köppen Dsc) conditions at high altitude, and the rest of the east is semi-arid (Köppen BSk) with cold and snowy winters. The Pacific Ocean has a significant influence on the climate that keeps the temperatures mild in comparison with places at similar latitudes.

Oregon, the Beaver State's topography ranges from rain forests along the western coast to semi-arid conditions in the central and southeastern regions. Mount Hood is the highest peak in the state, while Columbia is the most important river that flows through the Cascade Mountains. The three mountain ranges: Coast, Cascade, and the Blue Mountains influence the climate in the parts of the state that lie in their proximity. The river valleys have the most fertile agricultural lands, while mountains and plateaus provide for dry farming and livestock grazing. The arid Columbia plateau covers two-thirds of the total area of the state with elevations ranging from 1500 to 2000 meters.

The best time to visit Oregon is during the summer from June to August when the weather is relatively dry. Wildflowers are in full bloom by July even in the upper reaches of the mountain ranges. Late spring has mild conditions, but the weather is unpredictable. Early autumn in September often has good weather along the coast. The Coast Range has a relatively mild climate due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean, while the central and eastern parts register temperatures above 100°F (37.8°C).

The worst time to visit Oregon is from December to February in the winter. Winter is snowy in the mountains, especially the high elevations of the Cascade, Blue and Wallowa mountains. The majority of the rainfall occurs from October to May with a peak during the cold season. Heavy and persistent snowfall results in significant snow depth that serves as a major attraction during the skiing season. Snowstorms frequently strike the mountains and may last more than 24 hours. Winter skies are gray with frequent blasts of arctic air.

Spring is characterized by mild and wet conditions across most of Oregon. However, places such as Crater Lake can experience nights that dip below freezing. Rainfall begins to decrease, and the landscape transforms with the resurgence of flora. The days get progressively warmer, offering a prelude to the forthcoming summer.

Summers in Oregon are quite varied. While the western coast experiences moderate temperatures, the eastern part heats up significantly. This season is generally drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the state's diverse natural beauty. Wildflowers, especially in the mountain regions, are a visual treat during this time.

Autumn in Oregon is marked by pleasant and vibrant conditions. Daytime temperatures usually exceed 55°F (12.8°C) in October. The fall foliage adds a splash of color to the landscape, making it a picturesque season. As the days shorten, there's a gradual drop in temperatures, preparing the state for the upcoming winter.

Winters in Oregon can be quite challenging. The mountains, particularly the high elevations of the Cascade, Blue, and Wallowa ranges, receive substantial snow. Coastal regions, while milder, still experience chilly temperatures. With the majority of the state's rainfall occurring during this season, Oregon's landscapes transform, offering a different kind of beauty under a blanket of snow and rain.

January is amongst the coldest months in Oregon, with the chill felt most prominently in the mountainous regions. The Cascade Mountains are particularly cold, with temperatures plunging to lows of 18°F (-7.8°C) and causing frigid conditions for the inhabitants and travelers alike. Weather in January »

February in Oregon witnesses a slight shift from the deep cold of January, yet it remains one of the cooler months in the state. As winter reaches its latter part, there's a modest rise in temperatures, especially noticeable in the coastal regions. Weather in February »

March in Oregon signifies the transition from the biting cold of winter to the early hints of spring. As the days progress, the state undergoes a warming trend, with coastal areas leading the charge. In the Cascade Mountains, while remnants of winter's cold can still be felt with lows around 25°F (-3.9°C), the coastline welcomes warmer days, showcasing temperatures from 40°F (4.4°C) to 48°F (8.9°C). Crater Lake, nestled within the Cascade Mountains, stands as a distinctive point of reference in March. Weather in March »

April in Oregon is a clear herald of spring, with nature awakening in vibrant hues and the climate becoming more temperate. The Cascade Mountains, although gradually shedding their snowy cloak, may still experience chilly spells, with temperatures fluctuating around 32°F (0°C). Weather in April »

May in Oregon is emblematic of spring's pinnacle, a period where the landscape is awash with blossoming flowers and steadily rising temperatures. The Cascade Mountains, while largely free from the stronghold of winter, may occasionally exhibit cooler moments, with temperatures lingering near 40°F (4.4°C). Weather in May »

June in Oregon is a delightful preface to summer, as temperatures ascend and nature flourishes in its fullest form. The Cascade Mountains, predominantly free of winter's remnants, bask in pleasant warmth, hovering around temperatures of 50°F (10°C). Weather in June »

July in Oregon marks the zenith of the summer season, characterized by balmy days and clear skies. The Cascade Mountains, with their towering peaks, bask in warmth, registering temperatures around 60°F (15.6°C). On the other hand, the coastal areas, influenced by the cooling effects of the Pacific Ocean, maintain temperatures from 58°F (14.4°C) to 68°F (20°C). Bend, located in Central Oregon and known for its high desert climate, emerges as a focal point during July. Weather in July »

August in Oregon is a vibrant montage of sunlit days and mellow evenings, sustaining the warmth of the summer while hinting at the imminent approach of autumn. The Cascade Mountains, known for their scenic vistas, enjoy temperatures that oscillate around 62°F (16.7°C). Weather in August »

September in Oregon is a harmonious blend of summer's residual warmth and the first inklings of autumn's cool embrace. The Cascade Mountains, majestic in their silhouette, experience temperatures around the mark of 57°F (13.9°C). Weather in September »

October is the month where Oregon unfurls its full autumnal splendor. The Cascade Mountains, with their picturesque landscapes, experience temperatures hovering around 48°F (8.9°C). Coastal areas, where the Pacific Ocean continues to cast its moderating effect, have temperatures fluctuating from 50°F (10°C) to 60°F (15.6°C). Salem, Oregon's capital, receives notable attention in October. Weather in October »

November in Oregon is characterized by a marked transition towards the colder months, with landscapes painted in the final strokes of autumn giving way to the onset of winter. The Cascade Mountains, a beacon for nature enthusiasts, experience average temperatures around 38°F (3.3°C). Weather in November »

December heralds the robust onset of winter in Oregon, encompassing the state with a serene blanket of white and a chilling embrace. The Cascade Mountains, an iconic fixture in Oregon's geography, observe temperatures around 28°F (-2.2°C). Weather in December »