If you’re planning Thanksgiving in Oregon, you really do have to keep an eye on the sky. The holiday falls smack in the middle of the rainy season, and the weather can shift fast depending on where you end up. Most years, you’ll run into cool temperatures, frequent rain, and cloudy skies across much of the state during late November.
In western Oregon, including Portland and the Willamette Valley, rain shows up often and daytime highs usually hang out in the 40s and 50s°F. On the coast, storms sometimes barrel in with wind and heavy showers. The mountains pick up a higher chance of early snow. Eastern Oregon feels colder and drier, but nights regularly drop below freezing.
If you know these patterns, planning travel or outdoor plans—or just a cozy gathering inside—gets a lot easier. Having a sense of what late November weather brings across the state means fewer surprises and more confidence.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in Oregon
Late November in Oregon? You’re looking at cool temps, frequent rain, and cloudy skies almost everywhere. The details depend on your region—coast, inland valleys, or up in the mountains.
Average Temperatures Across Regions
Western valleys like Portland and Eugene usually see daytime temps in the upper 40s to low 50s °F (8–12 °C). At night, things drop to the mid-30s °F (1–3 °C), and the humidity can make it feel even chillier.
Along the coast, air temps stay a bit milder. Highs tend to stick around 50–55 °F (10–13 °C), and lows hover near 40 °F (4–5 °C). Winds off the ocean can make it feel colder, especially right by the water.
Mountain passes—think Santiam and Government Camp—get much colder. Highs usually don’t break out of the 30s °F (0–4 °C), and nights drop below freezing. Snow and ice can build up fast at these elevations, so travel gets tricky.
Eastern Oregon keeps it drier, but it’s colder too. Highs often stay in the 40s °F (4–8 °C), with lows falling into the 20s °F (-6 to -2 °C). Mornings often mean frost and icy roads.
Precipitation Patterns During Late November
Western Oregon gets a steady dose of rain during Thanksgiving week. Historical data shows Portland averages about 0.3–0.4 inches of rain on Thanksgiving itself, and there’s a decent shot at measurable rainfall.
The coast gets even wetter. You might run into steady showers or those quick, heavy bursts, usually blown in by Pacific storms. Wet roads and slick conditions are pretty much the norm if you’re driving Highway 101.
In the Cascades, snow replaces rain. Storms can dump several inches in a hurry, especially above 4,000 feet. That means passes like Willamette and Santiam often pick up snowpack and low visibility.
Eastern Oregon doesn’t get as much rain, but light snow or freezing drizzle sometimes happens. The dry air means fewer storms, but cold can trap moisture and make things icy.
Typical Sky Conditions and Cloud Cover
Late November in Oregon? You’ll mostly see clouds. Overcast skies rule the Willamette Valley, and sunshine only sneaks through in brief bursts. Even on drier days, expect low, gray clouds.
The coast gets a similar setup, with marine cloud layers and fog most mornings. Sometimes the sun pokes through in the afternoon, but honestly, full sunshine is pretty rare.
The Cascades can’t seem to make up their mind. Snow showers can drop visibility fast, and clouds tend to hang low over the mountains. If you’re traveling, get ready for conditions to change on a dime.
Eastern Oregon shakes things up a bit. Mornings usually start cloudy or foggy, but afternoons can clear up more than in the west. That cold, dry air sometimes brings crisp, partly sunny weather.
Regional Differences in Thanksgiving Weather
Oregon’s varied landscapes really shape the weather patterns you’ll see in late November. Low valleys stay damp and mild, coastal areas get slammed by storms, and inland plateaus and mountains turn colder and drier with more snow risk.
Willamette Valley Conditions
The Willamette Valley usually stays cool and wet for Thanksgiving. Highs reach the mid-40s to low 50s °F, and lows dip into the upper 30s. Rain is much more common than snow, and clouds are almost always around.
Showers tend to pass through in the morning or afternoon. They’re rarely heavy, but the constant dampness can slow down travel and mess with outdoor plans.
Snow doesn’t show up much here in late November. If it does, it’s usually just a quick dusting at night or early morning. Roads stay clear for the most part, but watch out for slick spots in shaded or higher areas.
Key points:
- Average high: 45–52°F
- Average low: 35–39°F
- Rainfall: Frequent, light to moderate
- Snow: Rare, usually light if present
Coastal Oregon Weather
Thanksgiving along the coast feels a lot stormier than inland. Daytime highs stick to the upper 40s, with lows in the upper 30s to low 40s. Pacific storms bring rain, gusty winds, and rough surf.
Thanksgiving week falls right in storm season, so windy days are pretty much a given. Gusts above 40 mph happen, especially on exposed headlands. Those winds can make driving bridges or near the shoreline a bit nerve-wracking.
Heavy rain is more likely here than anywhere else in Oregon. Flooding doesn’t happen often, but water can pool on roads and slow you down. Snow is almost never an issue, except maybe at higher Coast Range passes where you might see a little.
Key points:
- Average high: 47–50°F
- Average low: 38–42°F
- Frequent storms, strong winds
- Heavy rain more likely than snow
Eastern and Central Oregon Climate
Go inland, east of the Cascades, and you’ll find colder, drier weather. Highs usually top out in the upper 30s to low 40s. Overnight lows? Teens or 20s. You get more clear skies, but that just means colder nights.
Snow is more likely here than in the west. Light accumulations sometimes show up in towns like Bend, Baker City, or La Grande. Higher spots in the Blue Mountains or near the Wallowas can see several inches by late November.
Travel over mountain passes gets dicey with snow and ice. Valley roads might stay dry, but shaded or higher routes freeze overnight. Pack winter gear and check pass conditions before you go.
Key points:
- Average high: 37–43°F
- Average low: 15–25°F
- Snow more common, especially at higher elevations
- Clear but cold nights with icy travel risks
Rainfall and Snowfall Expectations
Late November in Oregon means damp valleys and a mix of rain and snow in the mountains. Where you go makes a big difference—coast, valley, and Cascades all have their own thing going on.
Chances of Rain During Thanksgiving Week
Rain’s a given in western Oregon during late November, but the amount depends on where you are. The Willamette Valley usually gets light rain or drizzle, though some years you’ll luck out with dry stretches and morning fog instead. Rainfall totals for the week hover around 1 to 2 inches in the valley.
On the Oregon Coast, showers come more often. You might get heavier bursts, and wet days outnumber dry ones. Coastal towns usually record 2 to 4 inches of rain during Thanksgiving week, so waterproof gear is a smart move if you’re outside.
Eastern Oregon stays much drier. Places like Bend or Burns might see light rain or none at all. If you do get precipitation, it’s quick and usually less than half an inch. This really shows how much Oregon’s geography changes rainfall patterns.
Snowfall in the Cascades and Higher Elevations
Snow hits hardest in the Cascade Range, where elevations above 3,000 feet usually get early-season snow around Thanksgiving. Snow levels often fall between 3,000 and 4,500 feet, so passes like Santiam or Government Camp can collect measurable snow.
Storms can dump several inches in a short time, especially on the west slopes. Ski areas like Mount Hood Meadows or Timberline usually see their first big snowfalls this week.
Central and eastern highlands, like the Blue Mountains, get lighter snow. These spots are colder but don’t catch as much moisture as the Cascades. If you’re driving mountain routes, get ready for winter driving conditions—even if the valleys look dry.
Thanksgiving Week Weather Trends
Most years, you’ll see a mix of cool temps, frequent rain, and the occasional dry break in late November across Oregon. The weather loves to change things up quickly, so plans and travel can get affected.
Recent Thanksgiving Weather Patterns
Recently, Thanksgiving week in Oregon has often started off dry before a storm moves in. Early in the week, you might catch partly sunny skies and highs in the low 50s. Midweek, rain usually returns, sometimes with breezy winds and a bit of mountain snow.
Travelers crossing the Cascades often hit rain or a rain/snow mix, but heavy snow on the passes isn’t too common this time of year. Snow usually stays above 5,000 to 6,000 feet, though light dustings can show up lower.
Typical pattern:
- Early week: Dry or partly sunny, highs around 50°F
- Midweek: Rain develops, breezy at times
- Holiday: Often dry or mild
- Weekend: Rainier pattern returns
Typical Weather Changes Leading Up to Thanksgiving
As November rolls on, days get shorter, nights get colder, and rain starts showing up more often. Early in the month, highs can still hit the mid-50s, but by late November, you’re looking at upper 40s to low 50s. Nights usually fall into the 30s and 40s, so mornings feel chilly.
Rain gets more consistent, too. Oregon’s wet season is in full swing by Thanksgiving, so you’ll see multiple storm systems in just a week. These bring steady rain in the valleys and snow up in the Cascades.
Wind is worth mentioning. Gusts happen with cold fronts, especially along the coast and in open valleys. They’re not usually extreme, but they can make travel less pleasant.
In general, you should plan for damp conditions, cooler temps, and the possibility of sudden shifts in weather. Keeping rain gear handy and being flexible with your plans really helps.
Travel Considerations for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving travel in Oregon depends a lot on your route. You might face wet valley roads, icy mountain passes, or hazards along the coast. Planning ahead makes a big difference.
Road Conditions and Mountain Passes
If you’re driving across the Cascades, get ready for changing conditions. Even in mild years, cold mornings can leave slick spots on Santiam, Willamette, or Government Camp passes. Light snow or freezing rain can pop up, especially at higher elevations.
Check pass reports from the Oregon Department of Transportation before you leave. Chains could be required if snow or ice shows up, and traction tires really help.
In the Willamette Valley, you’ll mostly deal with light rain and fog instead of snow. Roads still get slick after the first rain in a while, so keep extra distance between cars.
On the coast, rain is common, but sneaker waves are the big worry. These sudden waves can sweep up beaches and catch people off guard. If you’re stopping at the coast, stay alert near the water.
Weather-Related Travel Tips
Try to plan your departure times so you miss the worst of the crowds. If you head out early, you might run into some fog, which can make it tough to see. Give yourself more time and switch on those low-beam headlights.
Usually, by late morning, the fog lifts and things get brighter and drier. It’s a relief, honestly.
Pack for all kinds of weather. If you’re driving from Portland to Bend, you’ll pass through everything from soggy valley roads to icy mountain passes in just a few hours. Toss some warm clothes, water, and snacks in your car, just in case you get stuck or delayed.
Keep an eye on weather and road apps you trust. Oregon weather, especially in the mountains, can flip fast. You might see a little drizzle in the valley, but up higher, that could turn into freezing rain before you know it.
Keep your gas tank at least half full. With holiday traffic and random slowdowns, you never know when you’ll hit a long stretch without services. A little prep goes a long way toward a less stressful trip.
Preparing for Thanksgiving Weather in Oregon
Late November in Oregon usually means cool temperatures, rain, and plenty of cloudy skies. The weather can change on you quickly, so it’s smart to plan ahead and stay comfortable for all your holiday plans.
Recommended Clothing and Gear
Daytime highs typically land in the upper 40s to low 50s °F. Nights dip into the 30s °F, and rain shows up pretty often—more than half the days in November, actually.
Pack water-resistant outerwear like a rain jacket or shell. Layer a warm fleece or something insulated underneath for those chilly mornings and evenings.
Waterproof shoes or boots are a must, especially if you’ll be walking around town or hiking muddy trails.
Grab an umbrella for the city, but honestly, you’ll want a hooded jacket if it’s windy or you’re out in the country. Gloves and a hat come in handy up in the mountains or if you’re outside for a while.
If you’re driving, stash an emergency kit in your car with a blanket, flashlight, and some extra snacks. Mountain passes can get snowy or icy, so keep some chains ready just in case.
Outdoor Activities and Weather Impact
Rain and fog often cut down visibility and slow travel, especially along the coast and through the valleys. If you’re heading over the Cascades, you’ll probably run into colder weather and maybe even snow once late November rolls around.
For outdoor recreation, hiking trails get muddy and slick pretty quickly. Grab shoes with solid traction, and skip the steep or exposed routes when it’s pouring.
Coastal walks can still be a blast, but you’ll want to keep an eye out for high surf warnings.
Holiday events in cities tend to go on, rain or shine. If you’re hitting up a parade or market, bring some layers and rain gear.
If you’d rather stay dry, indoor spots like museums or wineries make for a nice backup plan.
Occasionally, you’ll luck out and get a sunny afternoon. Planning activities with some wiggle room lets you roll with whatever the weather throws at you.