Changing pattern for the weekend, colder, wet with some mountain snow possible

(KTVZ, Bend Ore.) Our dry and mild pattern is coming to an end Thursday as an area of low pressure digs in off the coast.  This feature will be slow to move and is going to provide cooler and cloudy weather through the weekend.

The low will mainly generate periods of rain west of the High Desert, but the mountain passes have a good chance to see a mix of rain and snow. The snow levels are going to be over 5000 feet, which will include Santiam Pass.

Southern and Western Deschutes County will see periods of rain and snow early in the day Friday and Saturday. Accumulations will be low due to the fact the ground is not frozen, so most of the snow will melt. I expect to see some snow on grassy areas, but may not last long.

Friday will see some rain later in the day as the low will send bands of showers across from the west. This will allow the mountains to absorb most of the moisture, but by the end of the day, rain makes it to Central Oregon.

Saturday will see the bulk of the precipitation stay along the Cascades and be a mix of rain and snow. Mountains will be looking at accumulations above 5000 feet so resorts begin to celebrate the measurable snow. The high desert will be looking at spotty showers. Highs Saturday will be in the 50s.

Some models bring in a mix of rain and snow to the high desert Sunday night into Monday morning. This will cause some issues for the morning commute.  The slick roads will be a problem through the middle of the morning, then change to rain after noon.

Tuesday will begin the drying out process, but still keeping the well below normal high temperatures. Highs will be in the 50s from Saturday through at least Wednesday.

Please, Stay safe.

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