Very warm and windy today, slight cool down into the weekend

Bend, Ore (KTVZ) – A ridge of high pressure continues to provide well above normal heat to Central Oregon. The ridge will maintain a grip on the area through the middle of the week. Highs will be in the middle 90s today and low 90s Wednesday before the ridge migrates east.

Today will be the hottest day of this forecast period as highs reach about 10 – 12 degrees above our normal low 80s for this time of year. There will be some cloud cover accompanying the heat, so “filtered sunshine” will best define the sky conditions.

There will be an increase in the fire potential for portions of Central Oregon as the dry and hot pattern maintains a grip on the region. Breezy winds at times also contribute to the elevated fire risk in the region.

Wednesday begins a slightly less hot day but highs will still be in the 90s. Mostly to partly sunny skies once again will best describe the sky conditions.  The flow of air arrives from the southwest today and Wednesday, keeping the heat on and the clouds present. Good news for the air quality as there are not many fires producing smoke southwest of the area, so there is minimal smoke being imported into the area.

Thursday will begin to see a drop in the mercury as a low off the coast finally breaks through the defensive ridge. This will have us in the middle 80s with partly cloudy skies. There will be windy conditions to our north as the low off the coast pushes inland near British Columbia. Winds in Central Oregon will be brisk but not enough to warrant any advisories. That may change of course, but currently we are forecast to stay below criteria levels for a wind advisory. 

The drought situation is getting dire in a few locations. The Extreme Drought category is covering 90% of the tri-counties at the moment, so no one is out of the dry pattern. There are noticeable low reservoirs in the area, Prineville Reservoir for example is around 30% full.

Friday will remain dry and warm with highs in the low 80s as there are some signs of a cool down on the way. Saturday will only reach the upper 70s and low 80s in the afternoon as some showers arrive west of the Cascades. This low moves across the high-line of Montana Sunday and we should keep the low 80s in place for a day or so.

The large wildfires are staring to become more mop up and patrolling than fighting, which is awesome.

Thanks to all the fire fighters and construction contractors that have been on the front lines this summer.  A brutal fight this year, and a dangerous one, thank you for all you do.

Please, Stay safe and smart.

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