12 December 2016

Portland Farmers Market’s Inclement Winter Weather Policy

Inclement weather is rare in Portland – other than a handful of three-digit degree summer days and a few snowy and icy days per year, we have relatively mild weather patterns. But on occasion, we do experience severe weather that makes it potentially dangerous to be outside.

PFM’s markets are open-air events and our policy is not to close markets due to weather unless we determine that it will be unsafe for vendors and attendees. We rely on the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) as well as other weather predictors to make the best decision for the safety of vendors and shoppers.

When a storm or other type of severe weather is predicted, you can rest assured that we are monitoring the forecast closely with the safety of vendors, staff and shoppers in mind. Because weather predictions and patterns changes constantly, we will make a final decision 12-24 hours before the market is scheduled to open. If unexpected extreme weather occurs during a market, and PFM decides to cancel the market, we will issue a statement through the outlets below:

Announcements regarding market closures, time changes or other weather-related updates can be found on our website, and on our Instagram, Twitter and Facebook accounts. You can also call our office at 503-241-0032 for more information.

Vendors always have the option of canceling their attendance at market due to inclement weather. If you are looking for information about a particular vendor at our PSU Market you can visit the market map here for a list of scheduled vendors or contact vendors directly. Social media is also an effective way to gather this information.

No matter the weather, the hard work our vendors, especially farmers, never stops. Crops need tending and produce cannot wait until bad weather passes. Our vendors rely on shoppers to support their businesses. Of course it is up to each individual to make the best decision regarding their own safety, but if our usual rain or cold temperatures are predicted, we encourage you to bundle up and head on down! Our vendors will thank you for it.

We look forward to seeing you.