Officials are warning residents in northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington to once again brace for more rain and strong winds Thursday.

An atmospheric river is making its way through the region, bringing with it several weather hazards including potential flooding and increased landslide risks.

In response to the severe weather, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management activated the State Emergency Coordination Center to Level 3 on Wednesday. The activation allows the state to provide speedy support to local emergency management offices and communities impacted by the atmospheric river.

The National Weather Service has issued major flood warnings for several rivers in Oregon and Washington including the Clackamas River, at Estacada, the Hood River, near Tucker Bridge, and parts of the Cowlitz River.

Steady rain began to fall early Thursday morning. It’s expected to continue throughout the day, with the heaviest rain expected in the afternoon and evening.

🌧️ A strong atmospheric river will bring heavy rain and widespread river flooding across northwest Oregon and southwest Washington on Thursday. Some rivers may continue to flood through at least Saturday. If you live in a flood-prone area, have a plan ready! #ORwx #WAwx pic.twitter.com/aBzPTI3vyI

— NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) December 17, 2025

The weather service has also issued a wind advisory for much of western Oregon including the greater Portland-Vancouver metro area.

According to the NWS, people should expect to see winds of up to 20 miles per hour — with gusts up to 45 miles per hour — throughout the day.

The strong winds could knock down trees and power lines, which may result in widespread power outages.

Officials are reminding people to secure any objects that could easily blow away and to stay away from any downed power lines. That advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Thursday.

A high wind watch is also in effect for the Central Oregon Coast Range, where gusts could reach up to 60 mph.

💨 Strong winds are expected tomorrow (12/18) across the region. Soils are already saturated, so trees and power lines will be susceptible to falling. Make sure to secure outdoor objects that can easily blow around and move away from any downed power lines. #ORwx #WAwx pic.twitter.com/5U13NwCFqL

— NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) December 17, 2025

And in the Cascade passes, snow began to fall Thursday morning. A winter weather advisory is in effect for heavy snow and wind through 10 a.m. Snow will likely turn to rain by Thursday afternoon, but that could leave a slushy mess on the roadways.

Check the latest emergency closures and delays at opb.org/closures

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2025/12/18/atmospheric-river-flooding-oregon-washington-weather-forecast/