The snow and cold weather are forcing Portland and Oregon to adapt in order to keep residents safe.

In the morning Thursday, at least two spring snow showers were seen in the West Hills of the Portland metro area.

The states of Oregon and Washington both announced Thursday that they are extending the deadline for taking the studded snow tires off of vehicles. While the deadline is normally April 1, this year drivers have until April 5 to remove the tires.

"I'm glad I didn't take off my … snow tires. I'm glad I didn't take them off this morning because I came down out of the West Hills. But it wasn't slick. It was great, but it is unusual," Elizabeth Ettling said.

The cold is forcing other accommodations as well including the opening of warming centers in Portland by the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross.

"I live up at the top of the hill up here and it looks like we're in the middle of winter. I'm a little concerned about what our plants are going to think,” Frank Weigel said. “All of a sudden they thought it was spring, and now here we are back in winter."

Two locations are being opened, one at Estate Hotel, 225 northwest Couch and the other at Foursquare Church, 1302 southeast Ankeny. Both will be open from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.

There will be an open door policy at the warming centers and guests may come and go freely. Pets are welcome. Hot coffee and soup will be served.

The city of Portland makes the decision to activate Red Cross warming centers based on a set of criteria:

When Dry
Centers will be opened if the temperature is 25 degrees Fahrenheit or below, including the wind chill factor.

Under Wet Conditions
Centers will be opened if the temperature is 35 degrees Fahrenheit or below, including the wind chill factor and there is any snow, freezing rain or sleet. OR If there is an inch or more of rain within 12 hours.

If any other combination of weather conditions that place homeless persons at risk of loss of life or serious negative health consequences exists then centers will be opened as well.