Warmer than normal pattern remains, fire danger still a concern, cooler Friday

(KTVZ, Bend Ore.)  Red Flag Warning in place for the NW corner of Jefferson County due to winds and dry fuel.  The rest of the Tri-Counties, although not officially in a warned area, will see quick fire growth if a spark ignites a flame. Please be aware of the dry pattern we have had and the warmer than normal conditions. Fire Danger is still a big concern the rest of the week and into the weekend.

Highs today will be in the middle to low 80s, significantly lower than yesterday’s 90s, but still above our normal low 70s for late September. The winds will be from the northwest, so the breezy pattern today should scour out most of the lingering smoke we have collected under the ridge of high pressure.  Air Quality Index readings will be in “green” for today, with a few “yellow” pockets.

Friday will be much cooler than Thursday as highs will be in the middle and lower 70s.  The skies will be mostly sunny and the cool feel of fall will be in the air. Do not get too used to it, warmer weather conditions are slated for the weekend.

Saturday and Sunday will both see highs in the low to middle 80s as another warming ridge arrives.  This spike back to the 80s may well be the last run of 80s this season. The shorter hours of daylight and the lower sun angle are all starting to take over as we move into next week.

Sunday will be partly cloudy to start but clouds will arrive late in the day. The clouds late Sunday afternoon are ahead of a line of showers that is slated to arrive early Monday morning.  This rain will be light, but is welcomed by the vegetation in the region. The rain will be widespread in the morning and then spotty in the afternoon.

High temperatures will only top out in the 60s and there will be periods of rain from Monday through Thursday morning.  This may signal the end of the wildfire season as the soaking rains of October change pattern of dry and hot to cooler and moist.

Please, Stay safe.

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