Hot and dry pattern continues with temps peaking on Thursday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) - We're tracking a few hot days ahead for Central Oregon!

We're still dealing with some patchy smoke this morning which is impacting the air quality in some spots.

Highs will reach the upper 80s to low 90s today as skies gradually become sunny.

Temperatures will peak on Thursday as highs rise to mid 90s.

Clouds will increase heading into Friday with highs in the upper 80s. A Pacific system will bring a slight chance for a passing shower or storm during the late afternoon or early evening. Not much rain is expected to reach the ground.

Storms are a concern during fire season because they can bring lightning and gusty winds, increasing the risk for new fire starts and rapid fire growth. Many of the fires burning across the region were sparked by lightning strikes.

We will return to sunny skies by the weekend with near normal temperatures in the low 80s.

Monday and Tuesday will be slightly warmer with the mid 80s, but sunny skies will stick around early next week.

Have a great Wednesday!

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