The climate of Portland
Portland, situated in the state of
Oregon, USA, is blessed with a Mediterranean, warm summer climate, also referred to as Csb in the Köppen climate classification. This type of climate is characterized by dry, warm summers and mild, wet winters, with precipitation often concentrated in the colder part of the year.
Throughout the year, one can observe a varying trend in the climate of Portland. Temperatures oscillate from a low of 34.7°F (1.5°C) in winter to a summertime high of about 81.5°F (27.5°C). Between
January and
December, the city undergoes a substantial temperature increase from 35.2°F (1.8°C) to 81.5°F (27.5°C) with the summer months witnessing the pick of the heat.
The highest rainfall is recorded from December to
February, with December experiencing the maximum annual precipitation of 4.53" (115mm). However, during the summer months of
July and
August, the city experiences minimum rainfall, which is in sharp contrast with the winters. On average, snowfall in Portland over the year is relatively low and mainly focused in the winter months, with a slight possibility in
November and December.
The best time to visit Portland
Summer, from
June to
August, is arguably the best time to visit
Portland. The city bursts into life as temperatures reach a comfortable average high of 80.6°F (27°C) in
July and a high of 81.5°F (27.5°C) in August. With approximately 9.3 to 10.8 hours of sunshine per day and a substantially low 0.31" (8mm) of rainfall in July, it is indeed a brilliant time to explore the city. Besides, the UV index of 6 makes it safer for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Portland
Winter months from
December to
February are considered the least favorable time to visit
Portland. Temperatures drop to a low of 34.7°F (1.5°C) in December, making the weather rather chilly. Furthermore, the city receives the highest average rainfall of 4.53" (115mm) in December. The shorter daylight hours, averaging 8.8 to 9.5 hours, as well as a reduced visibility of 5 miles, can act as deterrents to outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Spring weather in Portland
Spring in
Portland, from
March to
May, brings pleasant changes in weather. Temperatures pick up from the winter lows and range from an average low of 38.1°F (3.4°C) in March to a high of 67.1°F (19.5°C) in May. Relative humidity reduces from—March's 81% to May's 72%, making it agreeable for outdoor activities. Rainfall also decreases from 3.39" (86mm) in March to 1.77" (45mm) in May, marking the onset of the dry season.
Summer weather in Portland
Summers in
Portland, stretching from
June through
August, can be described as comfortably warm with an average temperature rising from 72.1°F (22.3°C) in June to about 81.5°F (27.5°C) in August. The city basks in approximately 15.3 to 15.6 hours of daylight with sunshine hours reaching up to 10.8 to 10.9 hours per day. Furthermore, a low average rain of 0.31" (8mm) in
July presents the perfect atmosphere for summer travelers.
Autumn weather in Portland
Autumn in
Portland, observed from
September to
November, features a combination of mild weather and increasing rainfall. The temperatures slowly decline from 74.1°F (23.4°C) in September to a fall average low of about 40.3°F (4.6°C) in November. Rainfall starts to pick up from September’s 1.69" (43mm) to November’s 3.54" (90mm). Sunshine hours also gradually decrease, giving way to longer, cooler nights.
Winter weather in Portland
Winter in
Portland, from
December until
February, is characterized by cold and wet conditions combined with shorter daylight hours. As the temperature drops from 44.1°F (6.7°C) in December to average lows of 34.7°F (1.5°C) in
January, the city experiences heightened rainfall with December recording the year's wettest month at 4.53" (115mm). Snowfall, though infrequent, can occur during these months with December seeing the most at 0.28" (7mm).
Weather in January
Weather in February
By the time
February sets in,
Portland starts experiencing a slight increase in average daily temperatures. Notably, this period continues to experience snowfall, albeit at a marginally reduced rate of about 1.22" (31mm) compared to
January.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
March arrives, it brings along a wave of warmer weather to
Portland. The month records a relatively higher rainfall of about 3.39" (86mm) which signals the dawn of spring. Light showers and mild temperatures make the landscapes of the city truly beautiful.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Portland is synonymous with the full bloom of Spring. There is a noticeable increase in sunshine hours, making days longer and warmer. A reduced rainfall amount of about 3.11" (79mm) marks the transition from the wet spring toward the dryer summer.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May brings in an elevated level of heat as
Portland is preparing for the summer month. Significantly, this month experiences the lowest spring rainfall at around 1.77" (45mm), resulting in mostly clear and mild weather. Residents start feeling the sun's warmth enveloping the city while the natural world thrives after the rainy seasons.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Portland signifies the onset of summer, characterized by longer days and shorter nights. Correspondingly, the number of sunshine days increases to 16. This period witnesses the dry climate of summer with significantly reduced rainfall.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is considered the heart of summer for
Portland. The average high temperature is 80.6°F (27°C), making this the hottest month of the year. Generally, it is a dry month, providing locals and tourists with ideal conditions to enjoy the exquisite outdoors.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Portland's weather remains warm and dry with the least cloud cover. As summer reaches its zenith, the city experiences the second-highest temperature of the season. However, August is also a month to enjoy a palette of vibrant sunset hues.
Weather in August »Weather in September
Localized weather patterns carry
Portland from the hot, dry months of summer into the cool, wet months of fall in
September. Registering 1.69" (43mm) of rainfall, the city sees a gradual increase in precipitation. Days start getting shorter, although they still remain long enough for outdoor activities.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Portland means the full arrival of the fall season. Rainfall starts increasing and takes a significant leap from
September to reach 3.39" (86mm). However, the temperature remains pleasantly cool, and the presence of the Sun can still be felt.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November marks the shift from fall to early winter in
Portland,
Oregon. The city records one of the highest rainfall figures of the year at 3.54" (90mm). Winds start picking up the pace, making the atmosphere colder. Despite the descending temperatures, the city holds its charm with the remnant fall leaves and the onset of holiday season decorations.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December welcomes the winter season in full swing in
Portland. The colder month brings 4.53" (115mm) of rainfall, the highest monthly average for the year. Accompanied by cooler winds, the temperatures add to the winter chill. Despite shorter days, the city brims with holiday cheer.
Weather in December »