Bend, Oregon – The region can expect a persistent pattern of rain through the weekend, delivering the wetting showers that have been missing this early September. The moisture will soak the dry soils and aid firefighting crews, but it also raises the need for vigilance around recent burn‑scar areas.
Thursday: Cool, cloudy and wet
Thursday will be overcast with cool temperatures, highs in the low 60s and some locations only reaching the upper 50s. That is roughly 15‑20 degrees below the normal early‑September high of 79°F for Central Oregon. Local rain gauges have recorded between 0.20 and 0.40 inches of rain since Wednesday, and more precipitation is on the way.
Fire‑fighter relief and debris‑flow watch
The recent rain has already helped fire‑fighting efforts, but officials warn that burn‑scarred terrain in Harney, Malheur and Baker counties remains vulnerable to mudslides or debris flows if additional rain falls in the eastern part of the state. Burn scars in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties are receiving less rain, yet the newly exposed earth could still produce minor mud flows. Residents near these areas should monitor local alerts as the weekend progresses.
Friday: Continued rain with a chance of thunder
Friday will bring another rainy day, though the precipitation will be intermittent. Highs will stay in the 60s across most locations, and winds will be breezy rather than gusty. There is a very slight chance of an isolated thunderstorm, so anyone outdoors should stay alert for sudden thunder.
Saturday: Clouds, a touch of drizzle
Saturday’s forecast shifts to partly‑to‑mostly cloudy skies with a slight chance of light rain or drizzle. Temperatures will climb into the mid‑60s, and a few hours of sunshine may break through the clouds.
Sunday: Rain returns
The upper‑level low pressure system that has driven the current wet pattern will remain in place on Sunday, bringing additional rain showers. While lightning will be unlikely, it is not impossible, so continued caution is advised.
Labor Day outlook
Labor Day is expected to mark the end of this rainy spell. Morning clouds and lingering showers may give way to partial clearing, while the afternoon looks dry—ideal for outdoor bar‑becues and family gatherings.
Looking ahead
Dry, warmer weather returns on Tuesday and should persist through the short work week, with highs reaching the upper 70s by mid‑week. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the Local Alert Weather App for real‑time radar and urgent alerts.
Please stay safe and smart.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
