PORTLAND -- The storm positioned over Oregon brought a much-anticipated blanket of white to the Cascades and dumped on the valleys, including Portland where residents experienced, heavy rain and thunder.

On Mt. Hood, nearly eight inches of snow had fallen since Thursday -- and the grand total was expected to surpass 20 inches by the end of the weekend. Ski resort officials were already celebrating plans to open earlier than Thanksgiving this year.

"If you're driving across the passes, expect new snow. We get a break from the wet weather Sunday, but a new storm brings more rain and mountain snow Monday night," KGW Meteorologist Nick Allard said.

Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort officials say they expect to open the resort next week, most likely Wednesday. "The resort has received 21 inches of snow since Friday and continues to rage dropping two inches of snow per hour the last two hours," said Resort Executive Director of Communications Dave Tragethon.