Rain Delivery Tips

Portland Rain After Dark: What Changes on a Night Route

Rain in Portland is rarely a dramatic downpour. More often it is a steady drizzle that lasts for hours, and at night that brings its own problems. Wet asphalt reflects headlights and streetlamps, so lane markings can almost disappear. Fallen leaves in autumn turn bike lanes and crosswalks slick. Puddles hide potholes. A few habits make a real difference once the sun is down.

Visibility comes first

Clean the inside of the windshield before a shift. Night glare is much worse through a filmy glass. Replace wiper blades as soon as they start to streak, and keep the defroster running so the windows don't fog up while you wait at a pickup. Bike and scooter couriers should use a bright front light and a red rear light, and add reflective strips on a jacket or bag. Drivers turning across wet, dark streets often don't see a rider until very late.

Watch the surfaces, not just the traffic

• Streetcar and light-rail tracks are very slippery when wet. Cross them as close to a right angle as you can, especially on two wheels.
• Metal plates, manhole covers and painted lines lose grip in the rain. Avoid braking or turning on them.
• Bridge decks can be colder and slicker than the roads leading to them. Take it easy on the approaches.
• Clogged storm drains after heavy leaf fall can leave deep standing water at corners. If you can't see the bottom, go around.

At the door

The last few metres matter as much as the drive. Keep orders sealed until handoff. If you need to leave an order for no-contact delivery, look for a covered spot such as a porch or doorway alcove, not an open step. Take a quick photo showing the order is out of the rain. Use a phone mount and a cloth to keep the screen dry. A wet touchscreen is a common cause of missed messages and delays.

Pace the whole shift

Rainy nights tend to bring more orders, because fewer people want to go out. That pressure can tempt you to rush. A realistic pace protects you and the food. If you're curious how weather affects coverage, see our delivery zones and hours pages. The FAQ covers common questions about delays.