Summer feel to the region today, rain expected this weekend

Bend, Ore (KTVZ) – Summer pattern remains as highs reach the 80s for the second day in a row. Today will be the peak heating day with highs in the upper 80s, possibly a low 90 or two in northern Jefferson County. Overall, the pattern is clear and dry as a ridge of high pressure in the desert southwest expands west and a ridge over the eastern Pacific expands east, creating a warm pocket of air for Central Oregon.

Thursday will be another warm day with a few clouds riding in over the ridge. The mercury will top out in the low 80s, not far from the mid-70s which is the average high for mid-September. The warmer pattern will be coming to a close Thursday as cooler air arrives from the north.

Friday will be the day of transition as we move from the summer-like feel to a more autumn-like pattern. The highs on Friday will only reach the low 70s under partly to mostly cloudy skies. The day should start out partly cloudy, but increasing cloud cover will define the late day time frame. The lack of solar energy will keep us below normal, along with the above-mentioned introduction of cooler air.

Showers are not expected to arrive until well after sunset, or possibly early Saturday morning. Therefore, Saturday will be a rainy day and significantly cooler than normal. Highs on Saturday will be in the low 60s, apart from locations in southern Deschutes County and Sisters, where highs will only top out in the 50s.

Rain will be off and on as well as beneficial for our agricultural needs. Soaking light rain will once again cross most of the area, putting a check on the smoldering wildfires in the region.

The rain will be a one and done this weekend as only Saturday will see “wetting rain” in the region. There may be a lingering shower early Sunday morning, but not much will be left by that time.

Sunday will be cloudy to start then gradual clearing as the day moves along. The highs will still be in the upper 50s and low 60s as the cold pocket of air is expected to linger into the new work week.

Monday will be partly cloudy and cool with highs in the upper 60s and low 70s. Tuesday and Wednesday will be similar.

Please, Stay safe and smart.

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