The Port of Portland's new Columbia River forecast tool gives container carriers instant access to a six-day prediction of the river's navigation channel depth at various locations. This cutting-edge tool provides a quick estimate of available water depths for sailing and scheduling shipments to and from the Port of Portland's marine terminals. Based on weather forecasts, tide tables, Columbia River basin run off and other river forecast data, the online tool estimates the depths at various gauge points along the river's path. In addition, this online planning tool incorporates the estimated vessel speed for predicting port arrival time. 'This is a great tool for us as we speak to potential ocean carriers as well as the general public,' said Bill Wyatt, Executive Director. Please visit the new Web site by clicking on the following link:

Columbia River Forecast

The Columbia River forecast tool was developed to help ocean container carriers visualize and anticipate projected river conditions, and is intended to provide an estimate of future channel conditions. The tool is not intended for actual navigation of large vessels. Forecasts are provided in cooperation with the NW River Forecast Center. Columbia River vessel navigation is performed by the Columbia River Bar and Columbia River Pilots.