Rejoice, Portlanders — the spring equinox is Tuesday, March 19, and with that, the promise of warmer days, blossoming landscapes, and yes (takes deep sigh) pollen. Personally, we think the weather is an underrated conversation topic, so we peeked at some of the major weather trends headed our way over the next few months.

Here’s what you can expect this spring in the City of Roses and beyond based on predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center.

The forecasted La Niña appears to have finally arrived, causing cooler spring temps + more rainfall. | Screenshot via NOAA Climate Prediction Center

Temperature

Keep your favorite sweaters handy. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Climate Prediction Center, we have a 33-40% chanceof temperatures being lower than normal.

Precipitation

Rain jackets will also continue to be a must. Our region has a 40-50% chance of getting more precipitation than usual.

March comes in like a lion

Bad news: the average rainfall for this month is 3.68 inches, but the good news is that conditions should start to improve as we... ahem... march... toward drier days and peak cherry blossoms.

April showers us with allergens

Trees typically start to release more pollen around this time, meaning runny noses and red eyes. Start up that medicine regimen so you don't miss out on the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. Average overnight low temperatures hover around 44°, so it's also time to start your garden.

May is moving the needle

We'll always give this month its flowers. From the Portland Rose Festival to the Mt. Tabor Art Walk, there are plenty of outdoor events and for good reason; on average, we experience 276 hours — or 11.5 days — of sunshine.