"Northwest Braces for Winter Storm with Snow, High Winds, and Mountain Pass Closures"

A winter storm watch has been issued for the Portland metro area from Friday to Saturday afternoon, with forecasts predicting 1-6 inches of snow. Uncertainties remain regarding the exact type of winter weather due to factors such as microscale meteorology and the movement of cold air. East winds are expected to bring cold air into the region, potentially leading to snow or ice depending on the depth of the cold air and the movement of moisture. The situation is still developing, and the Portland area is likely to experience some of the coldest temperatures of the season.