Heat wave continues, hottest temperatures expected today

Our spring heat wave will continue today with temperatures getting into the 90s. Areas north of Bend along US97 will hit the mid and upper 90s this afternoon. Heat advisories are out through the Valley, along the 1-5 corridor and have also been released for areas northeast of us, into the Columbia Basin.

Due to temperatures being 20-25 degrees above normal, we’ve issued a Local Alert Weather Day for today. Today will be the hottest day of the extended period of heat as a ridge of high pressure’s axis is centered perfectly overhead.

As the high pressure flattens and exits east, temperatures will begin to cool. You can plan for temperatures progressively dropping back down to the mid 70s by the end of the week.

Storm chances increase as the ridge exits, creating some instability. The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of Central Oregon under the “general risk” for thunderstorms while areas just to our south are under “marginal” (level 1/5) risk for severe storms on Tuesday.

It appears storms in Central Oregon will be limited to our higher elections. That includes areas in southern Deschutes as well as areas in Crook County—in the Ochocos and John Day highlands. If you live along 97 in the lower elevations, there’s little chance it will have any impact on your afternoon, but keep a watchful eye to the sky because storms can develop anywhere. Due to the chance for storms, we have also issued a Local Alert Weather day for Tuesday. Dry lightning, small hail, and gusty winds are possible. Keep an eye out for any potential new fire starts.

Conditions look quieter for Central Oregon the remainder of the week.

Happy Monday! Have a great day and stay safe in the heat.


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