Brisk winds return today, spotty snow over the Cascades, dry into the weekend

Bend, Ore (KTVZ) – The winds have returned today and are expected to continue into the evening. There will be gusts around 25 mph at times which will be a noticeable feature as you stroll or bike or hike around Central Oregon. The origin of the winds will be from the west mostly so the mountain passes will be able to funnel the winds effectively. Travel along 97 may see some brisk crosswinds so be aware of the gusty pattern today.

There is still a chance for the area to get some snow across the Cascades. There will be little chance of any moisture across the high desert, but western Deschutes and Jefferson Counties may get a dusting.  Black Butte Ranch, Sisters come to mind for a light dusting.

Thursday will be a sunny and cool day with temperatures reaching the low 50s. Normal for late March is around the middle 50s so we will be slightly below normal, but not by much.

Friday starts a nice warming trend as the mercury in the thermometer will reach the upper 60s through the weekend. This will be the last weekend of March, and it will feel much more like a June weekend.  Winds should be breezy but not a problem and it will be a great weekend to enjoy what Central Oregon has to offer. Get outside and take advantage of this mild weather.

Rain and some mountain snow return to the region next week. Timing is not quite nailed down at the moment, but I expect to see increasing cloud cover late Monday ahead of the rain that will be with us both Tuesday and Wednesday next week. Temps will be back to normal or a few degrees below normal by mid-week.

Of Note: The mountain rain Tuesday has caused Mt. Bachelor to close today, but cooler conditions and some light snow late today have them hopeful for a reopen Thursday.

Please, Stay safe.

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