Summer 2024 starts warm and gets hot this weekend
The summer solstice occurred today at 1:50 pm and the region is in full “summer mode” as far as temperatures are concerned. The first day of summer will see highs in the 80s under mostly sunny skies. The winds today were noticeable, but not to overwhelming as we were in the “breezy” category, not windy.
Friday will be a dry and very warm day with the mercury in the thermometer reaching the upper 80s. Some locations may hit the 90° mark, like Madras and Warm Springs, so we must be ready for the heat. Clothing choices are important, nothing too dark is always a good idea. A wide brimmed hat will keep the sun off your face and the back of your neck, so that too is a wise choice.
Saturday will be the hottest day of the year with temperatures spiking in the low 90s most locations and the upper 90s in some high desert locations. The record high in Bend for the 22nd of June is 92 so that will be challenged.
Sunday will be cooler than Saturday, but still above normal. Highs will be in the middle 80s as the normal highs should top out in the middle 70s.
The middle and upper 80s are expected to linger through at least the middle of next week.
The Drought Monitor is released each Thursday and this week there is no change in the drought conditions from last week. Still abnormally dry along Highway 97, but not drought conditions in our tri-counties or the state of Oregon either.
The summer solstice was today at 1:50 pm local time, when the direct rays of the sun are over the Tropic of Cancer. This officially starts the Astronomical Summer as the Northern Hemisphere will experience the longest “day,” with 15.5 hours of sunlight possible out of a possible 24 hours in the day. The shortest day is the Winter Solstice in December when we only experience about 9 hours of daylight.
During the heat of summer, remember to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, wear a wide brimmed hat and some loose-fitting, light-colored clothes. Never leave pets or kids in your car.
Stay Safe
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