Portland wakes up Monday under a few lingering high clouds, but skies clear through the morning to deliver a mostly sunny afternoon with a high near 72°F — get outside and enjoy one of the nicest days of the month so far.
Today’s Setup
A weak upper-level disturbance is pushing some clouds over the Rose City early this morning, but the National Weather Service says skies improve steadily through midday. Northwest winds stay light at 1 to 8 mph all day, making it comfortable from Forest Park trails to Waterfront Park along the Willamette. Tonight, temperatures ease to around 47°F under mostly clear skies — the NWS notes fog is possible in sheltered Willamette Valley locations on clear nights, so take it easy on rural roads if you’re heading into wine country before sunrise Tuesday.
Best Window To Be Outside
All afternoon, honestly. Eastmoreland Golf Course, the Springwater Corridor, and the Columbia River Gorge viewpoints will be at their best. If you’re planning a fishing trip to the Sandy or Clackamas rivers this week, check out the UPF 50+ Fishing Shirts for $6.50 deal — excellent sun protection at an unbeatable price for a long day on the water.
Allergy Alert
This is peak grass pollen season in the Willamette Valley, and sunny, low-wind days concentrate counts in the air. Keep an allergy relief nasal spray in your bag before heading out, and eye drops for allergy itch relief are worth having for peak afternoon hours when counts are highest. Running a HEPA air purifier at home tonight can help your sinuses recover after a full day outdoors.
Events This Week
Tonight, the Portland Fire host the Connecticut Sun at Moda Center — great WNBA action to kick off the week, indoors and weather-proof. Get tickets on SeatGeek and grab Official team gear on Fanatics to rep the team.
Tuesday, May 19: the Eugene Emeralds host the Hillsboro Hops at PK Park in Eugene — comfortable temps and no rain in sight make it a fine night for minor league baseball.
Wednesday, May 20, is a double-header for entertainment: the Portland Thorns FC face Bay FC at Providence Park, and Brandi Carlile plays Hayden Homes Amphitheater the same evening. Both events should see mild, dry conditions in the mid-to-upper 60s. Find tickets on StubHub for Brandi Carlile — she fills venues fast.
Days Ahead
Tonight’s mild air makes a veggie stir-fry or light pasta the easy call for dinner — nothing heavy, just fresh flavors that match the season. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything for tonight’s dinner delivered to your door.
Tuesday brings nearly identical weather: partly sunny, high near 73°F. The National Weather Service is tracking a gradual warming trend through Thursday, with highs potentially reaching the upper 70s to near 80°F along the I-5 corridor. Rain chances stay at 5% or below through mid-week — the next real shot at widespread rain holds off until late next weekend. Check the Portland weather forecast for daily updates as the ridge evolves.
