Heat continues, smoke returns, isolated storms possible

A lot going on for such a sunny start to the day, but the heat is a major issue for folks, and we need to be safe.  Make sure to keep hydrated and stay in the shade as much as you can. There is an Excessive Heat Warning for Bend, Redmond, Prineville and points north, as temps may reach the 105 range in spots. To the south, a Heat Advisory is in place, as temps will be near 100. 

The other feature today will be a chance for some isolated thunderstorms. The storms are not all that welcomed, as there is the threat of some lightning starting up a wildfire. The rain will not be beneficial, just spotty, so the storms are not going to ease any of our drought scenarios. A Fire Weather Warning is in place to our west. 

The Smoke from the Bedrock and other fires in the area may be more robust today than in recent days. The smoke will drift over Central Oregon and be problematic for sensitive groups.  This may inhibit some of the heating today, and restrict the chance for storms to develop.   

The National Weather Service in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality have placed Deschutes, Klamath and Lane Counties under an Air Quality Alert until late Thursday. This is due to the smoke coming in from the Bedford fire and other locations to our west.

Cooler weather is on the way over the weekend, along with some showers.  

Don't forget to download our free KTVZ Local Alert Weather app for the most current conditions and we'll help keep you safe with customizable alerts. 

iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ktvz-local-alert-weather-app/id1088330817 

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ktvz.android.weather&hl=en_US 

Here is a look at the record highs for Bend and Redmond.

Bend: 
Record high of 98 on the 15^th of August set in 1933
Record high of 99 on the 16^th of August set in 2020
Record high of 100 on the 17^th of August set in 2008 

Redmond: 
Record high of 103 on the 15^th of August set in 2021
Record high of 106 on the 16^th of August set in 2008
Record high of 103 on the 17^th of August set in 1997