Warm first day of spring, cooler pattern returns this weekend

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) - Another unseasonably warm day across Central Oregon yesterday, with some spots reaching the low 80s. That above normal pattern continues today, before cooler air moves in this weekend.

The Vernal Equinox happens at 7:46 am today, marking the start of astronomical spring. It’s based on Earth’s position relative to the sun and means we’ll now see more daylight than darkness through the fall.

Highs will range from the low to upper 70s this afternoon.

Elevated fire weather concerns remain in place due to low humidity and gusty winds, which could allow fires to spread quickly through dry grasses. A cold front arriving tonight will help lower that risk heading into the weekend.

Clouds will begin to increase later today, with a brief chance for light rain early Saturday. Overnight lows will fall into the 30s and 40s.

Saturday will feel noticeably cooler, with a chilly start and highs in the mid 50s. By Sunday, temperatures rebound into the upper 50s to low 60s.

We’ll warm back into the 60s Monday and Tuesday, keeping us slightly above normal to start next week.

Enjoy the weekend ahead! Happy Spring! 🌸

Don’t forget to download the Local Alert Weather App to stay connected with our team of meteorologists. 

You can get access to LIVE radar and receive urgent weather alerts so you’re always prepared.