Possible record warmth today, poor air quality and plenty of sunshine through the week

Bend, Ore (KTVZ)— Very little change in the overall pattern with near record and possible record warmth today.  The record for Bend is 59 set in 2018, so we will see if that number gets re-written in the books.  Redmond record in 62 from 2009, that has a bit better chance staying in place.

The ridge of high pressure is providing the much warmer than normal conditions and shows little signs of moving out of the region. The pattern is on hold, which is not good news for snow riders, but will be nice when the heating bill comes in by the end of the month.

The ridge is also keeping the smoke and particulate matter close to the surface. Air quality issues are still a concern this week as the sinking air puts a lid on the smoke trying to escape. 

A very thin layer of warm air has developed above the cold air at the surface. This will also be a feature that keeps the smoke from dissipating into the sky. An Air Quality Advisory as well as an Air Stagnation Advisory are in place for Central Oregon until Friday or beyond. 

You should be able to take advantage of the mild weather by dusting off the bike or taking a hike in the neighborhood. This milder than normal patten will not last much longer, so if you enjoy getting some of the rust out of your bones, this will be a good week and weekend to enjoy the outdoors.

Thursday through Sunday will see temperatures in the upper 40s to low 50s. Still above our normal 43, but not as mild as earlier this week and today.

Please, Stay safe.

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