Gaston Oregon Annual Rainfall

Learn about gaston oregon annual rainfall

Curious about how much rain Gaston gets? Here’s the simple answer: Gaston’s annual rainfall averages roughly 47–52 inches in town, with higher totals in the nearby Coast Range foothills by Hagg Lake. This guide explains what gaston oregon annual rainfall means, when it falls, and how to plan around it.

Quick Answer

Gaston, Oregon sees about 47–52 inches of rain each year, mostly from October through April. Winters are wettest (November–January), while July and August are usually very dry. Expect around 150–165 days with measurable rain annually. Areas near Hagg Lake often get more—roughly 55–65 inches—thanks to the Coast Range.

What gaston oregon annual rainfall Means

  • Town average: About 47–52 inches per year
  • Nearby foothills (Hagg Lake/Scoggins Valley): Often 55–65 inches per year
  • Rainy days: Roughly 150–165 days annually
  • Wet season: October–April (peak Nov–Jan)
  • Dry season: July–August (often under 1 inch per month)

In short, Gaston sits at the edge of the Coast Range, so it’s a bit wetter than Hillsboro or Beaverton, but drier than the higher Coast Range peaks.

Why People Search for This in Gaston, Oregon

  • Daily life: Planning gutters, landscaping, and mud management on rural properties
  • Commuting: Knowing when OR‑47 and local farm roads may be slick or have standing water
  • Outdoors: Timing hikes and fishing at Henry Hagg Lake and wetland walks at Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge
  • Wine country: Understanding vineyard conditions around Gaston, Yamhill, and Forest Grove

What to Expect

  • Season by season
    • Fall (Oct–Nov): Rains ramp up; leaf-clogged drains and slick roads are common.
    • Winter (Dec–Feb): Wettest stretch; steady rain with occasional heavy downpours or an atmospheric river. Light snow or ice happens some years.
    • Spring (Mar–May): Showers and sun breaks; trails dry gradually.
    • Summer (Jun–Aug): Mostly dry; July–Aug can be nearly rain-free.
  • Monthly feel (typical)
    • Wettest: Nov–Jan (~5–7 inches each month)
    • Shoulder: Feb–Apr (~3–4 inches)
    • Dry: Jul–Aug (<1 inch)
  • Local notes
    • Hagg Lake levels rise in winter; some shoreline spots get muddy.
    • Wapato Lake NWR is seasonally wet—great for birds, but expect soggy paths after storms.
    • Heavy rains can slow trips to the coast on OR‑6 due to slides or high water.

Tips for Visitors / Residents

  • Gear up
    • Carry a waterproof jacket and waterproof footwear most of the year.
    • Dress in layers; winter chill comes more from damp air than extreme cold.
  • Home & property
    • Keep gutters and ditches clear in fall.
    • Use gravel or mats at entries to handle mud.
    • Check drainage around barns, driveways, and well heads.
  • Driving
    • Watch for standing water on rural roads off OR‑47.
    • Slow down during first rains after dry spells—oil on roads makes them slick.
    • For coast trips, check OR‑6 conditions after big storms.
  • Outdoors
    • Best dry-weather hiking and paddling: July–September.
    • Best waterfall/green views: November–April (bring boots).
    • Vineyard visits are lovely in fall, but harvest can coincide with first big rains—pack rain gear.

Frequently Asked Questions About gaston oregon annual rainfall

  • How far is Gaston from Portland?

    • About 28–30 miles west of downtown Portland (roughly 45–60 minutes, traffic-dependent).

  • When is the best time to visit for dry weather?

    • July through September are the driest and sunniest months.

  • Will it snow?

    • Some winters bring a dusting to a couple inches. Ice is more common than deep snow.

  • Is it kid friendly in wet months?

    • Yes—just bring boots, warm layers, and spare socks. Hagg Lake and Wapato Lake have easy trails and picnic areas.

  • Is parking available at local outdoor spots?

    • Hagg Lake has multiple lots (day-use fee). Wapato Lake NWR has free parking at signed trailheads.

Best Local Resources

Summary

Gaston’s climate is classic Northwest: about 47–52 inches of rain each year, with most falling October–April. Expect more rain in the nearby foothills by Hagg Lake, and mostly dry, pleasant summers. With good rain gear and a bit of planning, it’s easy to enjoy Gaston year-round.

  • Weather by Season in Gaston, Oregon
  • Best Rainy-Day Things to Do Near Hagg Lake and Forest Grove
  • Driving OR‑47 and Local Backroads: Safety Tips and Scenic Stops