Oregon Weather by Month
Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, is known for its diverse climate that ranges from the temperate rainforests of the western coast to the arid deserts of the eastern part of the state. The state’s varied geography, including the Cascade Mountains, the Columbia River Gorge, and the high desert plateau, contributes to its wide range of weather patterns. Coastal areas experience mild, wet winters and cool, foggy summers, while the inland valleys, including the Willamette Valley, have a more temperate climate with wet winters and warm, dry summers. Eastern Oregon, on the other hand, experiences more extreme temperatures, with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Oregon is also known for its abundant rainfall, particularly in the western part of the state, which contributes to the lush forests and vibrant ecosystems. The state’s diverse climate and natural beauty make it a year-round destination, offering outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and beachcombing.
Month | Avg. Temp (°F) | Avg. Temp (°C) | Avg. Precipitation (in) |
---|---|---|---|
January | 32-47 | 0 to 8 | 5.5 |
February | 34-51 | 1 to 11 | 4.6 |
March | 37-55 | 3 to 13 | 4.3 |
April | 40-60 | 4 to 16 | 3.1 |
May | 45-67 | 7 to 19 | 2.5 |
June | 51-74 | 11 to 23 | 1.7 |
July | 55-82 | 13 to 28 | 0.5 |
August | 54-82 | 12 to 28 | 0.7 |
September | 49-76 | 9 to 24 | 1.5 |
October | 42-64 | 6 to 18 | 3.1 |
November | 37-53 | 3 to 12 | 5.9 |
December | 33-47 | 1 to 8 | 6.4 |
January
Weather Description
January in Oregon is typically cold and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 32°F to 47°F (0°C to 8°C). Coastal areas experience milder temperatures and frequent rain, while the mountainous regions see significant snowfall, making it a popular time for winter sports. The Willamette Valley often experiences overcast skies and persistent drizzle, contributing to the state’s reputation for rainy winters.
Clothes to Wear
Dressing warmly is essential in January. Layering with thermal undergarments, sweaters, and a waterproof jacket is recommended. Waterproof boots and an umbrella are also necessary, especially in the western part of the state. In the mountains, heavy winter gear, including insulated jackets and snow boots, is essential for those engaging in outdoor activities.
Major Landmarks Recommended
January is an excellent time to visit Mount Hood, where skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports are in full swing. The Oregon Coast offers a dramatic, windswept landscape perfect for storm watching, especially in places like Cannon Beach. For a quieter experience, explore the museums and galleries in Portland, which provide a warm retreat from the winter weather.
February
Weather Description
February in Oregon continues the cold and wet winter trend, with temperatures averaging between 34°F and 51°F (1°C to 11°C). The coast remains rainy, while the mountains continue to receive heavy snowfall. Inland areas, including the Willamette Valley, experience slightly warmer temperatures but still contend with frequent rain and overcast skies.
Clothes to Wear
Layering remains important in February. A medium to heavy-weight waterproof jacket, along with warm clothing like sweaters and thermal layers, is ideal. Waterproof boots and an umbrella are essential for staying dry. In the mountains, winter sports enthusiasts should wear insulated jackets, snow pants, and snow boots.
Major Landmarks Recommended
February is perfect for winter sports in Mount Bachelor and Crater Lake National Park, where the snow creates a picturesque winter wonderland. Portland continues to offer cultural attractions like the Portland Art Museum and Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), which are great for escaping the winter rain. Astoria, located at the mouth of the Columbia River, offers historic sites and scenic views, especially during the quieter winter months.
March
Weather Description
March in Oregon marks the transition from winter to spring, with temperatures ranging from 37°F to 55°F (3°C to 13°C). The weather begins to warm up, but rain remains prevalent, particularly in the western part of the state. Snow is still common in the mountains, making it a good time for the last of the winter sports season.
Clothes to Wear
Layering is key in March due to the fluctuating temperatures. A medium-weight waterproof jacket, along with comfortable clothing like jeans and long-sleeve shirts, is ideal. Waterproof footwear and a light rain jacket are recommended for those rainy days, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors.
Major Landmarks Recommended
March is a great time to visit Silver Falls State Park near Salem, where the waterfalls are at their most powerful due to the winter rains. Portland begins to see the first signs of spring, with cherry blossoms blooming in the parks. Bend offers the best of both worlds, with opportunities for late-season skiing at Mount Bachelor and early spring hiking in the surrounding areas.
April
Weather Description
April brings a more noticeable shift towards spring in Oregon, with temperatures averaging between 40°F and 60°F (4°C to 16°C). The snow in the mountains begins to melt, and the landscape across the state starts to green up. Rain showers remain frequent, particularly in the western regions, contributing to the lush, vibrant springtime scenery.
Clothes to Wear
Spring layers are ideal for April. A medium-weight jacket, long-sleeve shirts, and comfortable pants are recommended. Waterproof shoes and a rain jacket or umbrella are essential for staying dry during the frequent rain showers. As temperatures can rise during the day, it’s a good idea to have lighter layers underneath.
Major Landmarks Recommended
April is a fantastic time to visit the Columbia River Gorge, where the waterfalls are full and the wildflowers begin to bloom. Portland offers a variety of spring events, including the Portland Farmers Market, which reopens for the season. Ashland is another great destination, with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival kicking off its season in early April.
May
Weather Description
May in Oregon brings warmer weather, with average temperatures ranging from 45°F to 67°F (7°C to 19°C). The state becomes lush and green, with flowers blooming and trees fully leafing out. Rain showers are still common, but the warmer temperatures make this a pleasant month for outdoor activities.
Clothes to Wear
May requires a versatile wardrobe to handle the variable weather. Light layers such as t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts, paired with a light jacket or sweater, are ideal. Waterproof clothing, including a rain jacket and sturdy boots, is recommended for those venturing into nature. As temperatures rise, you can start to swap heavier winter gear for lighter, more breathable options.
Major Landmarks Recommended
May is an excellent time to visit Crater Lake National Park, where the roads begin to open up and the lake’s blue waters contrast beautifully with the remaining snow. The Oregon Coast is also stunning in May, with fewer crowds and milder weather. Portland’s Rose Festival begins in late May, celebrating the city’s iconic flower with parades, events, and beautiful displays.
June
Weather Description
June ushers in the warmth of early summer in Oregon, with temperatures ranging from 51°F to 74°F (11°C to 23°C). The state’s landscapes are lush and green, with wildflowers in full bloom. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Clothes to Wear
With the arrival of warmer weather, lighter clothing becomes more appropriate. T-shirts, light long-sleeve shirts, and hiking pants are ideal for daytime activities. However, evenings can still be cool, so a light jacket or fleece is recommended. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also important to protect against the strong summer sun.
Major Landmarks Recommended
June is one of the best times to explore Mount Hood, where the warm weather makes for excellent hiking and wildlife viewing. The Oregon Coast provides beautiful trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. For those interested in Oregon’s cultural history, the Oregon Caves National Monument offers fascinating exhibits and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
July
Weather Description
July is the warmest month in Oregon, with temperatures averaging between 55°F and 82°F (13°C to 28°C). The weather is generally warm and dry, making it the peak season for outdoor activities. This is the best time to explore Oregon’s natural beauty, from its mountains to its deserts.
Clothes to Wear
Summer attire is suitable for July, including t-shirts, shorts, and breathable fabrics. However, temperatures can drop in the evenings, so a light jacket or sweater is still advisable. Comfortable hiking shoes or sandals are recommended for outdoor activities, and don’t forget sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Major Landmarks Recommended
July is perfect for visiting Crater Lake National Park, where the lake’s waters are at their clearest and the weather is ideal for hiking and exploring. Bend is another popular destination, offering a mix of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking. Portland hosts numerous summer festivals, including the Waterfront Blues Festival, which draws music lovers from across the country.
August
Weather Description
August continues the warm summer weather in Oregon, with temperatures ranging from 54°F to 82°F (12°C to 28°C). The days are long and sunny, making it an ideal month for outdoor adventures. This is the driest month of the year, particularly in Western Oregon, offering perfect conditions for exploring the outdoors.
Clothes to Wear
Light, breathable clothing is best for August, with t-shirts, shorts, and comfortable hiking gear being essential. A lightweight rain jacket or poncho can be useful in case of unexpected showers. Sun protection remains important, so hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are necessary for any outdoor activities.
Major Landmarks Recommended
August is an excellent time to explore Silver Falls State Park, where the clear skies and warm weather make for perfect hiking conditions. The Oregon Coast provides beautiful trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. For those interested in Oregon’s cultural history, the Oregon Caves National Monument offers fascinating exhibits and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
September
Weather Description
September in Oregon marks the beginning of fall, with temperatures cooling to an average range of 49°F to 76°F (9°C to 24°C). The days are still warm and pleasant, but the nights become cooler, and the first signs of autumn appear in the changing colors of the leaves. This is one of the best months for outdoor activities, with fewer crowds and stunning landscapes.
Clothes to Wear
Layering is key in September, as temperatures can vary widely throughout the day. A combination of t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and a medium-weight jacket or fleece is recommended. Comfortable hiking boots and a hat are essential for exploring the outdoors, and a light rain jacket can be useful for unexpected showers.
Major Landmarks Recommended
September is a prime time to visit Columbia River Gorge, where the fall colors begin to emerge, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking and photography. The Oregon Coast provides beautiful trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. For those interested in Oregon’s cultural history, the Oregon Caves National Monument offers fascinating exhibits and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
October
Weather Description
October in Oregon brings more noticeable autumn weather, with temperatures averaging between 42°F and 64°F (6°C to 18°C). The state begins to prepare for winter, with cooler days and chilly nights. Snowfall is possible, particularly at higher elevations, and the fall colors reach their peak, creating a beautiful contrast against the rugged terrain.
Clothes to Wear
As temperatures drop, warmer clothing becomes necessary. Layered clothing, including long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a warm jacket, is ideal for October. A beanie, gloves, and waterproof boots are recommended for those venturing into higher elevations or preparing for the possibility of early snowfall.
Major Landmarks Recommended
October is a great time to visit Crater Lake National Park, where the fall colors provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and apple picking. The Oregon Coast provides beautiful trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. For those interested in Oregon’s cultural history, the Oregon Caves National Monument offers fascinating exhibits and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
November
Weather Description
November in Oregon signals the transition from fall to winter, with average temperatures ranging from 37°F to 53°F (3°C to 12°C). Snow becomes more common, especially in the mountains, and the state begins to experience winter conditions. The days are shorter, and the weather is often cold and crisp.
Clothes to Wear
Warm, insulated clothing is necessary for November, including thermal layers, a heavy winter coat, and insulated boots. Hats, gloves, and scarves are also important to protect against the cold. If you plan to spend time outdoors, consider wearing waterproof clothing to handle snow and slush.
Major Landmarks Recommended
November is a quieter time to visit Crater Lake National Park, where the snow-capped mountains create a breathtaking winter landscape. The Oregon Coast provides beautiful trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. For those interested in Oregon’s cultural history, the Oregon Caves National Monument offers fascinating exhibits and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
December
Weather Description
December in Oregon is marked by cold temperatures and frequent snowfall, with average temperatures ranging from 33°F to 47°F (1°C to 8°C). The state is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow covering the mountains and plains. The days are short, but the festive atmosphere of the holiday season brings warmth and cheer to the cold winter days.
Clothes to Wear
Winter gear is essential in December, including thermal underwear, a thick sweater, a heavy winter coat, and insulated boots. Accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves are necessary to protect against the cold and wind. Layering is key to staying warm, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Major Landmarks Recommended
December is the perfect time to visit Crater Lake National Park, where the ski season is in full swing, and the town is decked out in holiday lights and decorations. The Oregon Coast provides beautiful trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. For those interested in Oregon’s cultural history, the Oregon Caves National Monument offers fascinating exhibits and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.