Big Time Snow Is Here!
Note: This page will be updated frequently throughout the ski season to alert you of approaching storm systems and powder.
Please be sure to also check the Conditions Report for info on ski area operations (including closures due to storms and weather, as well as notices on current avalanche forecasts).
UPDATED January 7, 2026:
It’s been a long wait, but the Cascades are finally getting what the Cascades usually get in winter: heaping helpings of snow!
Check out this forecast from the University of Washington’s high-resolution model:
This forecast is for total snow accumulation through 4 pm Friday. Those yellow areas over Mt Hood and the central Cascades are 30+ inch forecasts. NE Oregon, I mean you, Anthony Lakes, you’re in the 20-25″ range.
Here’s another high-resolution model we use at KGW:
Showing similar amounts for the Cascades. It shows less for A Lakes, but I think you’ll do better than what this model shows.
The bottom line is you’ll be making lines through fresh snow through Friday! This multi-foot snowfall will greatly increase the skiable terrain in Oregon, if not get nearly all of it open.
But, keep in mind, our snowpack will still be shallower than what it usually is at this time of year! So, while you should absolutely enjoy the abundance of new snow, don’t be reckless. Early season conditions still exist … for now.
My powder picks for the week would be Thursday and Friday. The snow will be lightest and freshest and deepest on Thursday. Friday will have better weather however, as the storm abates and we start to get some clearing.
And clearing is what we get a lot of through the weekend and especially next week, as high pressure builds strongly along the West Coast. That means plenty of bluebird opportunities to enjoy the new snow next week.
What about after the bluebird? It’s a long way out in forecast land, but around January 20th, we may begin to see some good cold storms drop south from BC. I’m encouraged by this because:
- This type of pattern usually delivers some of our best quality powder.
and … - There are no signs of warm atmospheric rivers and the SW flow aloft that plagued us in December, returning any time soon.
Enjoy the new snow! And remember, it’s still early season, so there’s a lot of great skiing and riding ahead of us. The Cascades can make up snowpack in a hurry, as we’re seeing right now!
See ya out there.
Matt Zaffino
KGW Chief Meteorologist
Facebook: Facebook.com/MattZaffinoPortland
Twitter: @Zaffino
Instagram: MattZaffino
Ski and Snowboard Safety
Those skiing in steep and ungroomed terrain should be familiar with Deep Snow Safety and become informed on traveling and recreating in avalanche terrain. Find more tips on skiing and snowboarding safety here. Avalanche forecasts are available through the Northwest Avalanche Center (Mt. Hood), Central Oregon Avalanche Center, and Wallowa Avalanche Center in Eastern Oregon.
Skiers and snowboarders should always follow the Skier’s Responsibility Code, which exists to raise awareness that there are elements of risk in snow sports that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce:
- Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
- People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
- Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
- Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
- You must prevent runaway equipment.
- Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
- Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
- Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
