The Pacific Northwest is expected to see wet, stormy weather from December 18 to 24, with NOAA’s long-range forecast predicting above-normal precipitation in Washington, Oregon, and northern California. As Christmas Eve approaches, a succession of Pacific storms are forecast to bring many rounds of rain, mountain snow, and strong gusts.
According to NOAA, western Washington, which includes Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia, will see the most continuous rainfall. Moderate to heavy showers are expected from December 19 to 23, causing ponding on roads and traffic delays. Coastal locations, especially Aberdeen and Forks, may experience locally higher totals due to breezy to windy weather.
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Farther south, northwest Oregon—including Portland, Salem, and the I-5 corridor—may face multiple rainy commutes, with the most rain forecast on December 20-22. During more powerful bursts, low-lying areas may experience localized flooding.
In the Cascades, colder air at higher elevations causes snow to accumulate, making travel across mountain passes, including Snoqualmie, Stevens, Santiam, and Willamette, difficult. Snow levels may fluctuate early in the period before falling between December 22 and 24, raising the danger of chain limits and delays.
Northern California, particularly Redding, Eureka, and the coastal ranges, will also experience periods of moderate to heavy rain, with Sierra foothill elevations receiving early-season snow.
Major regional routes, including I-5, U.S. 101, and key mountain pass roadways, may experience limited visibility, hydroplaning risks, strong winds, and Christmas travel delays, particularly from December 20 to 24.
