PORTLAND, Ore. -- Just days after hitting the highest temperature of 2010, Portland can expect one more night of chilly weather and descending snow levels.

FOX 12 meteorologists said showers could briefly turn to snow in the Willamette Valley on Tuesday night, but a mixture is more likely. Several locations, including far western Washington County and Columbia County, have a chance at seeing the snow level drop closer to sea level.

The wintry weather isn't just affecting Portland. A winter weather advisory is in effect for the Coast Range and the Cascade foothills through 5 a.m. Wednesday. A National Weather Service report said snow totals could reach 3 inches in those areas.

Temperatures will warm up Wednesday and lingering showers are expected in the metro area.

On Monday, Portlanders saw snow, hail and sun during a wild eight-hour period of weather.

A cold front brought in frigid arctic air after three weeks of higher-than-usual temperatures in Oregon.

While this week's winter weather may have come as a surprise to some, the warm weather conditions from the last two weeks have tricked plants and trees into thinking it's time to bloom. Hail, rain and light snow dealt the plants a beating Monday.

Experts said potted plants are most at risk of damage when cold weather hits, but watering the plants and covering them up can help insulate and protect them.

"You can use something that's called a garden cover," said Celina Gomez, of Farmington Gardens. "You just basically lay it over your plants."

The garden covers, which cost about $20, let in sunlight and protect against frost.

Slideshow: Wild March Weather | Send: Your Photo

Portland Sees Snow, Hail, Sun