St. Johns Winter Weather Preparedness Guide

Living in St. Johns means enjoying a mild Pacific Northwest climate most of the year, but winter can occasionally bring snow and ice that disrupts daily life. This guide will help you prepare for and safely navigate winter weather in our neighborhood.

Before the Storm: Preparation

Essential Supplies to Keep on Hand

Food and Water: Stock at least 3-5 days of non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person per day
Medications: Ensure you have adequate supplies of prescription medications
Flashlights and Batteries: Power outages are common during winter storms
First Aid Kit: Include basic medical supplies and any special items your family needs
Battery-powered or Hand-crank Radio: Stay informed if power goes out
Extra Blankets and Warm Clothing: Be prepared for heating disruptions
Ice Melt or Sand: For walkways and steps (avoid salt near plants)
Snow Shovel: Essential for clearing paths

Pro Tip: St. Johns stores often sell out of winter supplies quickly when storms are forecast. Shop early in the season to avoid last-minute rushes.

Home Preparation

Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and bursting
Know how to shut off your water main in case pipes freeze
Trim tree branches that could fall on power lines or your home
Check your heating system before winter arrives
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams
Seal drafts around windows and doors
Have a backup heating source (if using alternative heat, ensure proper ventilation)

During a Winter Storm

Staying Safe Indoors

Stay indoors during severe weather whenever possible
Keep rooms warm but avoid overheating
If power goes out, close off unused rooms to conserve heat
Never use gas stoves, generators, or grills indoors due to carbon monoxide danger
Let faucets drip slightly to prevent pipes from freezing
Monitor weather updates regularly

Carbon Monoxide Warning: Never use generators, camp stoves, or charcoal grills indoors. These produce deadly carbon monoxide gas. Only use these devices outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from windows and doors.

Driving in Winter Weather

St. Johns streets can become treacherous during snow and ice events. Portland has limited snow removal equipment, and our hilly terrain makes conditions especially challenging.

Avoid driving if possible: Stay home unless travel is absolutely necessary
Bridge caution: The St. Johns Bridge freezes before road surfaces
Slow down: Reduce speed significantly and increase following distance
Black ice: Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas
All-wheel drive isn't enough: Even 4WD vehicles need winter tires in these conditions
Keep gas tank full: Prevents fuel line freeze and ensures you can run heater if stranded

Car Emergency Kit

If you must drive, keep these items in your vehicle:

Ice scraper and snow brush
Jumper cables
Flashlight and extra batteries
Blankets and extra warm clothing
Water and non-perishable snacks
First aid kit
Sand or cat litter for traction
Small shovel
Phone charger (car adapter and/or power bank)

Walking Safely

Sidewalks in St. Johns can be hazardous during winter weather. Many areas lack sidewalks entirely, and ice can persist for days after a storm.

Wear boots with good traction
Take small steps and walk slowly
Keep hands free for balance (don't carry loads or put hands in pockets)
Be extra cautious on hills and near the waterfront
Watch for falling ice from trees and buildings
Use crosswalks and make eye contact with drivers

Public Transit and Schools

TriMet Service

TriMet often reduces or suspends service during severe weather, especially on hilly routes. The bus lines serving St. Johns may operate on snow routes or not run at all.

Check TriMet alerts before traveling: trimet.org
Plan alternative transportation or allow extra time
Bus stops may not be cleared of snow
MAX light rail typically continues operating but may have delays

School Closures

Portland Public Schools and other districts may close or delay opening during winter weather. Check your school's website or local news for closure information.

Community Resources

Warming Centers

During severe weather, Portland opens warming centers throughout the city, including in St. Johns. These provide shelter, warmth, and sometimes meals during extreme conditions.

Call 211 or visit 211info.org for current warming center locations
Check the City of Portland's emergency management website
St. Johns Community Center may serve as a warming center

Emergency Information

Emergency: 911
Non-emergency Police: 503-823-3333
Portland Bureau of Emergency Management: 503-823-4375
PGE Power Outages: 503-464-7777
NW Natural Gas Emergency: 800-882-3377
Water Bureau: 503-823-4874

After the Storm

Safety Precautions

Check on neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable residents
Clear snow and ice from sidewalks in front of your property (Portland requires this within 24 hours after snow stops)
Watch for falling ice from roofs and trees
Look out for downed power lines - stay at least 30 feet away and call 911
Check your home for burst pipes or water damage
Be patient with snow removal crews - Portland has limited equipment

Good Neighbor Tip: If you're able, help elderly neighbors or those with disabilities by clearing their sidewalks or checking on their wellbeing. Community support is essential during winter storms.

Portland's Snow Response

Portland's snow removal priorities focus on:

Major emergency response routes
Transit routes and hills
Major arterial streets
Secondary streets

Residential streets like those in many parts of St. Johns are low priority and may not be plowed. The city uses de-icing treatments on main routes but has limited equipment compared to cities that regularly experience snow.

Climate and Snow Frequency

Portland, including St. Johns, averages 4-5 inches of snow per year, though actual amounts vary significantly. Some winters bring no measurable snow, while others produce storms that paralyze the city.

The unpredictability of Portland winters makes preparedness essential. Even if we only get one or two snow events per season, being ready ensures you can weather the storm safely and comfortably.

Stay Informed

Monitor weather conditions through:

National Weather Service: weather.gov/pqr
Our website for current St. Johns conditions
Local news stations
City of Portland alerts
Portland Bureau of Emergency Management Twitter/X account
NOAA Weather Radio

Being prepared for winter weather in St. Johns isn't about fear—it's about being ready to handle whatever Mother Nature brings. With proper preparation and good judgment, you can safely navigate winter storms and enjoy the beauty of a snow-covered Portland.