Memorial Day weekend usually conjures images of barbecues, beach trips, and the unofficial start of summer. But for parts of the Pacific Northwest, it might look a lot more like winter. Two U.S. states — Oregon and Washington — are bracing for a possible snowstorm as the holiday weekend kicks off.
According to forecasts, the mountains in both states could see significant snowfall starting Sunday evening and continuing into Memorial Day itself. This isn't just a dusting — forecasters are warning of heavy mountain rain mixed with snow that could disrupt travel plans for outdoor enthusiasts.
Oregon: Cold Temps and Mountain Snow
In Oregon, the Statesman Journal reports that temperatures on the evening of May 24 could drop into the low 40s. By May 25, rain is expected to intensify in the mountains, with snow levels dropping to around 6,500 feet. The situation could become even more challenging as snow levels fall toward pass level on the night of May 25 and into the morning of May 26.
This means popular hiking and camping spots in the Cascade Range could see a sudden coating of snow. Anyone planning a trip to higher elevations should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Washington: Snow on Memorial Day
Washington state isn't escaping the wintry blast either. The mountains there are also forecast to receive snow on Monday. While the lowlands may just see rain, drivers heading over mountain passes could encounter slippery roads and reduced visibility.
This wintry surprise comes as many other parts of the country deal with their own severe storms targeting memorial day getaways, including high winds and flood threats.
How to Stay Safe If Snow Hits
If you find yourself caught in snowy conditions this weekend, here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:
- Stay home if possible. Only go out if necessary. Even if you're an experienced driver in bad weather, it's not worth the risk.
- Drive slowly. Adjust your speed for lower traction on snow or ice. Accelerate and decelerate gently to avoid skids.
- Increase following distance to five to six seconds. This gives you extra time to stop safely.
- Know your brakes. Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and apply firm, steady pressure with the ball of your foot — whether you have antilock brakes or not.
- Avoid stopping if you can. It takes more inertia to start from a full stop than to keep rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep moving until a light changes, do it.
- Don't power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads will just spin your wheels. Build momentum before the hill and let it carry you to the top.
- Don't stop going up a hill. Getting started again on an icy incline is a nightmare. Get moving on flat ground first.
This is also a good reminder that memorial day weekend soaked flash flood warnings target 4 us regions, so even areas not expecting snow should stay weather-aware.
Whether you're planning a mountain hike or a road trip, keep an eye on the forecast and pack layers. And if you're heading to the coast, remember that beach warning issued for 4 states as memorial day weekend kicks off includes rip current risks.
Stay safe, stay alert, and don't let a late-season snowstorm catch you off guard.
