Hot pattern continues today and numerous wildfires contribute to poor air quality 

The air quality in Central Oregon is dangerously poor as smoke from the Rail Ridge Mega-fire and Wiley Flat fires continues to drift over the region. The Rail Ridge fire is now over 100k acres, classifying it as a mega-fire. There was some aggressive fire behavior late Friday which helped expand the footprint. The Wiley Flat fire is burning hot and throwing off a lot of smoke today. So, that, coupled with the heat, is making for unhealthy conditions for several communities over the next couple of days. 

The heat is also an issue as today and Sunday. Just to give you some perspective, the normal high temperatures in early September are supposed to hover around the upper 70 in our region, this weekend we will see several 90° locations. There is a Heat Advisory in place until 9 pm tonight in Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook Counties so take the appropriate precautions.  

Please limit your outdoor activities this weekend due to the heat and the poor air quality. 

There is little relief in sight as we push forward into Sunday with the ridge of high pressure responsible for the heat hanging around. Also, the smoke is getting trapped under the sinking air under the high so there will, more than likely, be poor air quality through at least the beginning of the new work week.  

Expect to see much cooler weather as the ridge breaks down and some spotty showers arrive. Look for highs in the 80s on Tuesday, and the low to middle 70s by mid-week. The best chance for some scattered showers is on Wednesday. 

Stay Safe 

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