Does It Snow in Cornelius Oregon

Learn about Does It Snow In Cornelius Oregon

Wondering, “Does It Snow In Cornelius Oregon”? Short answer: sometimes. Cornelius sits in Oregon’s mild, rainy Willamette Valley, so snow is occasional rather than constant. This guide explains how often it snows, what winter really looks like here, and how to prepare whether you live here or are visiting.

Quick Answer

Yes—occasionally. Cornelius usually sees a dusting to a couple of inches in some winters, and some years get none at all. Every few years, a larger snow or ice event can bring several inches and slick roads. Most winter days are cool and rainy, with highs in the 40s and nights in the 30s.

What Does It Snow In Cornelius Oregon Means

People asking “Does It Snow In Cornelius Oregon” want to know how common snow is and how it affects daily life. Cornelius is at low elevation (about 190 feet) in Washington County, between Hillsboro and Forest Grove. That means winter is mostly rain. Snow happens, but it’s not guaranteed each year.

  • Elevation matters: the nearby Coast Range foothills west of Forest Grove get more snow than the valley floor.
  • In town, expect light, short-lived snow most years—if it happens at all.
  • The bigger local hazard is often freezing rain and ice, which can glaze roads and trees.

Why People Search for This in Cornelius, Oregon

  • Moving here? You want to know if you’ll need winter tires, shovels, or a snowblower (usually no).
  • Commuting to Hillsboro or Portland? You’re checking how often roads get slick.
  • Planning winter fun? You’re deciding whether to look for snow locally or head to higher elevations.
  • Family readiness: School closures and power-outage prep during icy events.

What to Expect

  • Typical snowfall: About 1–3 inches total in a normal winter, often arriving in 1–2 short events. Some winters bring zero snow in town.
  • Occasional big storms: Every few years, a cold snap can bring 4–8+ inches and ice.
  • Timing: Late December through February is your best chance. Light events can happen in November or March.
  • Temperatures: Highs mid-40s°F; lows mid-30s°F. Cold snaps can drop into the 20s or teens.
  • Roads and travel:
    • OR-8 (Tualatin Valley Highway) through Cornelius is prioritized for sanding, but can still be slick.
    • OR-47 south of Forest Grove and Cornelius Pass over the West Hills can be icy; higher routes may close during storms.
    • Highway 6 toward Tillamook and Highway 26 toward the Coast Range see more snow than town.
  • Nearby places:
    • Forest Grove (2 miles west) and Hillsboro (4 miles east) usually see similar conditions.
    • Hagg Lake/Scoggins Valley Park (about 20 minutes south) and surrounding hills get snow more often than Cornelius proper.

Tips for Visitors / Residents

  • Driving
    • Keep windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temps and a small ice scraper in the car.
    • For local streets, winter tires are helpful but not required most winters. If you plan trips into the mountains, carry traction devices.
    • Avoid steep, shaded back roads during cold mornings—black ice is common.
  • At home
    • Have a simple winter kit: flashlight, batteries, phone charger, blankets, and some shelf-stable food for an ice-induced outage.
    • De-ice steps and sidewalks early; shaded spots refreeze at night.
  • For snow play
    • Light snow in town is hit-or-miss. For reliable snow, drive east to Mount Hood or west into the Coast Range (check road conditions first).
  • Commuting
    • TriMet’s Line 57 runs through Cornelius; on snow days, expect delays or snow routes.
    • Many local schools (Forest Grove School District) may delay or close during ice/snow events.

Best Local Resources

  • National Weather Service (Portland): Detailed forecasts and winter storm warnings.
  • ODOT TripCheck: Live cameras and restrictions for OR-8, OR-47, US-26, and Highway 6.
  • Washington County Roads: Plow/sanding priorities and closures.
  • City of Cornelius: Local service updates.
  • Forest Grove School District: School closures and delays.
  • TriMet Alerts: Bus detours and snow routes (Line 57).

Frequently Asked Questions About Does It Snow In Cornelius Oregon

  • How far is Cornelius from Portland?

    • About 22 miles west of downtown Portland (35–50 minutes, longer in winter weather).

  • When is the best chance to see snow in town?

    • Late January through February. Still, many winters bring only flurries or none at all.

  • Do I need snow tires or chains in Cornelius?

    • In town, not usually. If you’re heading to Mount Hood, the Coast Range, or higher elevations, carry chains and check TripCheck.

  • Is it kid-friendly to play in the snow nearby?

    • After local dustings, parks and yards are fine. For deeper, reliable snow, try the Coast Range hills or Mount Hood sno-parks.

  • Are roads plowed in Cornelius?

    • Major routes like OR-8 are prioritized for sanding and plowing. Neighborhood streets may stay compact or icy longer after storms.

  • Where should I park during snow or ice?

    • If possible, use off-street parking to keep routes clear for sanding and emergency vehicles.

Summary

  • Cornelius gets occasional light snow, with many winters seeing little or none.
  • Bigger storms and ice arrive every few years and can disrupt travel and power.
  • Winter is mostly cool and rainy, not deeply snowy.
  • Plan for slick roads, watch forecasts, and use TripCheck and local alerts on storm days.
  • Winter Weather in the Tualatin Valley (Hillsboro, Forest Grove, and Cornelius)
  • Driving to Hagg Lake in Winter: What to Know
  • Preparing for Ice Storms in Washington County
  • Best Rainy-Day Things to Do Near Cornelius
  • Day Trip: Finding Reliable Snow at Mount Hood