Plenty of sunshine and cooler today, but still above normal

Bend, Ore (KTVZ)— Cooler pattern today as the ridge of high pressure pushes off the coast. The center of the ridge is now west of the area, but we are still above normal as far as temperatures go.

Highs the past two days have been in the 60s in Bend and Redmond as the ridge was parked overhead. Although we are now only expected to reach the 50s, it is still well above our normal 43° afternoon high for this date.

The skies are expected to stay mostly sunny as the region will begin to cool slightly Friday, then return to the 50s over the weekend. Highs are likely to only hit the middle 40s Friday.

The Air Stagnation Advisory has been extended until further notice as the winds are light and the smoke from pile burns and our chimneys have a tough time getting scoured out.

The cool air overnight allows the smoke and particulate matter to drop closer to the surface. Air quality overnight has been in the unhealthy range the past few nights as a result.

Over the weekend highs will be in the 50s once again, so any outdoor activities will need a light jacket vs. a winter coat.

Little change in the forecast is expected this weekend and into next week. The resorts will not be too pleased with the lack of snow and milder weather once again.  Grooming and prepping for the day has been a robust task at most locations. There still is snow on the ground, but nothing is expected until possibly the end of the month.

Please, Stay safe.

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