Residents of Bend and the surrounding Central Oregon area should prepare for a brief stretch of summer‑type weather before the forecast turns autumnal this weekend. Thursday will be warm, with temperatures climbing into the low 80s, only a few degrees above the mid‑70s average for mid‑September.
Thursday: Warm and Mostly Sunny
The high pressure ridge that has been dominating the desert Southwest is extending westward, keeping the region dry and warm. Expect clear skies early in the day, with a few clouds drifting over the ridge later on. The mercury should top out in the low 80s, offering a pleasant, if brief, reminder of summer.
Friday: Transition to Cooler Temperatures
By Friday, cooler air will begin to arrive from the north, signaling the end of the summer feel. Temperatures will drop to the low 70s under partly to mostly cloudy skies. The increased cloud cover will limit solar heating, keeping daytime highs below normal for this time of year.
Saturday: Rainy and Significantly Cooler
Showers are not expected until after sunset on Friday, with the first measurable rain arriving early Saturday morning. Saturday will be the primary rainy day, bringing highs down into the low 60s across most of the region. In southern Deschutes County and the town of Sisters, temperatures may linger in the 50s.
The rain will be beneficial for local agriculture and will help dampen the smoldering wildfires that have plagued the area this summer. Expect the precipitation to be light but steady, providing a needed “wetting rain” for the landscape.
Sunday and Early Next Week
Early Sunday may see a lingering shower, but most of the day should clear, leaving cloudy skies that gradually give way to sunshine. Highs will remain in the upper 50s to low 60s as the cold pocket of air persists into the work week.
Monday will bring partly cloudy conditions with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s, and similar weather is expected on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to stay safe and smart by monitoring local alerts. The KTVZ Local Alert Weather App provides live radar and urgent weather notifications, ensuring you are prepared for any sudden changes.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.