LOCAL ALERT WEATHER DAY: Heavy rain, gusty winds, and flood concerns

BEND, Ore (KTVZ) -

We have issued a Local Alert Weather Day today due to moderate to heavy rain bringing flood concerns to most of our viewing area. Precipitation will continue through the first half of Friday so we’ve decided to extend the Alert Day into Friday as well.

Rain totals through Friday will likely fall between 1-2” for the 97 corridor but could exceed that in areas like Sisters, Sunriver, and west Jefferson County. A Flood Watch is active until Saturday. Rivers, creeks, and streams will be running high and localized flooding is possible.

Before we get rain today, wet snow and a wintry mix is possible this morning. A Winter Weather Advisory will be active until 10am for the eastern slopes and South County. Some accumulation is possible, making for a slick morning commute, but will be washed away quickly with the rain.

A Wind Advisory is active for portions of the 97 corridor today. Winds have the potential to gust between 45-55mph. High winds and heavy rain will increase the likelihood of localized damage and power outages. Make sure you bring in your trash cans early and secure those holiday decorations.

The mountains will mostly see rain today, which will melt much of yesterday’s snow. However, Friday will be a great day for mountain snow. The Cascades have the potential to pick up around a foot, give or take. A winter alert will likely be released for Friday by the NWS sometime later today.

Have a safe Thursday. 

Don’t forget to download the Local Alert Weather App to stay connected with our team of meteorologists. 

You can get access to LIVE radar and receive urgent weather alerts so you’re always prepared.