The Portland/Vancouver area is bracing for a potentially dangerous ice storm as a front from the coast of California moves in, bringing widespread rain and freezing temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued an ice storm warning for the region, which will be in effect from 2 p.m. Tuesday through 4 a.m. Wednesday.

The front, moving in from the southwest, is expected to start affecting areas around Florence and Eugene by about noon. As it moves into the mid-Willamette Valley, temperatures will warm up. However, the Portland area is likely to remain frozen for a longer period due to the cold pool created by ice-cold winds coming down the Columbia River Gorge.

With temperatures well below freezing, the forecast predicts that ice will accumulate up to half an inch, coating everything with freezing precipitation. This is likely to result in downed trees and limbs, causing power outages and extremely hazardous driving conditions. Travel is strongly discouraged during this time.

TriMet, the local transportation agency, is still working on clearing the MAX tracks and wires from the previous round of snow and ice. Buses are available but may experience delays, especially during the evening commute. WES, however, is running regular service on Tuesday.

Schools in the area have canceled in-person learning for the morning as a precaution. Portland Public Schools is among those that have announced closures.

The Columbia River Gorge is expected to be the last area to see the cold air scour out. Snow is forecasted for Tuesday, followed by a mix of wintry precipitation lasting into Wednesday. The gorge will experience challenging conditions, such as snow, freezing rain, and sleet, accompanied by gusts of up to 50 mph. Travel through the gorge will be extremely difficult, and road closures may occur due to accidents similar to previous ice storms.

As for the Cascades passes, although the snow level is anticipated to rise to about 4,500 feet during this storm, road conditions will still be treacherous. Pass roads are expected to accumulate 10-15 inches of snow through Wednesday night, and strong winds will reduce visibility at times.

Fortunately, relief is on the horizon as Portland is expected to break out of the winter freeze on Wednesday. Rain is forecasted throughout the day, with temperatures reaching around 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Winds will be blustery, with gusts of up to 35 mph possible at times.

The rainy conditions will persist on Thursday, with highs reaching approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Extended forecasts suggest continued rain showers into Friday and Saturday, with average temperatures in the low-to-mid-40s. This weather pattern will keep the snow confined to the mountains. Unsettled weather is likely into next week, with rain in the valleys and snow in the upper elevations. Current forecasts indicate good chances of above-average temperatures in the 6-10 day outlook.

Residents in the Portland/Vancouver area are urged to stay informed about real-time travel updates and take precautions to ensure their safety during this inclement weather period.