Spotty storms ending but brisk winds increase wildfire concerns

Isolated thunderstorms over the weekend have produced several wildfires in Central Oregon, and a few that are requiring aggressive attention. The Wiley Flat fire in Crook County has grown rapidly over 1000 acres by 5pm today. The dry pattern this summer has placed Central Oregon at risk for rapid fire growth if weather conditions permit.  Today and tonight the conditions are ripe for a small fires to expand rapidly, so the Wiley Flat fire is not the only fire that will need to be monitored.  I will continue to monitor the wildfire sites for any updates and keep you informed on Facebook and X.

There is a chance for strong thunderstorms today. The storms will generate some dry lightning and gusty winds, which is a recipe for rapid fire growth. The Storm Prediction Center has placed a good portion of our region under the Marginal Risk Category for severe storms with gusty winds near 60 mph being the main reason.

The threat of severe weather will end by or before midnight, with the chance for a rogue storm to linger into the early morning hours of Tuesday.  Expect to see the winds remain gusty, around 15 – 25 mph, until sunrise then begin to relax.

The rest of the week will be dry as we return to another string of hot days and mild nights. Highs Tuesday will be in the low 80s, just about right for early September, but as the week moves along, temperature readings rise.

Wednesday though the weekend will be hot. Highs in the low 90s Wednesday and the middle to upper 90s Thursday and Friday.  Not much in the way of cloud cover is expected as well.  Officially in the Meteorological Autumn, but not the Astronomical Autumn, which doesn’t begin until September 22 at 4:43 am pacific time.   

Stay Safe

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