Heat and clouds Friday, low chance for storms and showers

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) - A Heat Advisory remains in effect today for most of Central Oregon and the Columbia River Basin east of the Cascades.

Today marks the end of our stretch of 90-degree temperatures. It will still be hot, but not quite as hot as Thursday.

Clouds will increase throughout the day, with a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms. Any dry lightning could spark new wildfires. Since it's been so dry, rain is less likely to make it to the ground.

The latest drought update also shows conditions worsening across the region, with extreme drought now covering a larger area.

Cooler temperatures arrive over the weekend. Highs will fall into the upper 80s Saturday under partly cloudy skies.

Gusty winds and low humidity could increase the risk of rapid fire spread. A Fire Weather Watch will be in effect Saturday from noon until 10pm.

Sunday will be slightly cooler, with highs in the mid 80s, sunny skies and a light breeze.

Highs will return to the upper 80s Monday under mostly sunny skies, with a similar pattern continuing Tuesday and Wednesday.

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