Wet weather chances increase around the PNW Wednesday

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Wet weather returns to western Oregon and Washington Wednesday as temperatures remain below average.

A few light rain showers are likely from the Oregon Coast to the Cascades Wednesday as a front approaches. The increase in cloud coverage will help keep temperatures in the mid-70s Wednesday afternoon. Forecast highs put Portland nearly five to 10-degrees below the average of 82 this time of year.

Rain accumulation will be minimal Wednesday for Willamette Valley locations. That changes as a front moves through the region late Wednesday night into Thursday morning. The heaviest of Portland and Vancouver's rain comes before sunrise Thursday. That's when nearly a quarter of an inch of rain is possible for coastal communities and the Willamette Valley. Greater amounts are possible over the Cascades through Friday.

The wetter weather pattern will keep temperatures cool through the end of the week. The coldest day of the week is expected to fall over the weekend. That's when highs fall to the mid- to upper-60s making it feel like an early onset of fall.

A ridge of high pressure starts building off the coast Sunday. That's when skies will slowly start to dry and clear. The clearing skies will help Portland area temperatures warm back into the low 80s by the start of next week.