Below normal conditions remain, showers possible late Tuesday

Bend, Ore (KTVZ) – The weekend rainfall was light and spotty with most of the area receiving about a tenth to a quarter inch of rain. This is not much, but we will take what we can get.

This week will start out chilly and there is a chance for some light rain once again. The rain chances increase late Tuesday as an area of low pressure off the coast provides the opportunity. The rain will be mostly near the mountains and should keep the chill in the air.  Highs on Tuesday are likely to high the low 70s as we will get some sunshine early in the day. As the day moves along the clouds move into place. The rain should be and overnight event, and lingering shower activity for the morning commute is possible, but low.

Wednesday, after starting out cloudy with some light rain, will remain cool. Highs will reach the upper 60s as the low lingers.  This feature is likely to remain over the region through the week, but as far as the precipitation goes, it looks like light rain off and on.  Since this is an upper level low pressure system and steered by the jet stream, it is at the mercy of that ribbon of air to push it along, it may not be in much of a hurry. This will lead to a mostly cloudy pattern starting late Tuesday and continuing through late Thursday. 

Thursday’s forecast is all based on the low and the slow movement to the east. There is not much moisture available to work with in the upper levels of the atmosphere Wednesday, but Thursday looks to be a bit wetter. This will not necessarily lead to a rainy day, but I do not expect to see much sunshine. A slight chance of rain is the best forecast option at this time so keep the rain gear handy Thursday but don’t change your plans. Highs Thursday will top out in the low to middle 70s.

Friday will be a dry and milder day as the mercury in the thermometer will top out in the upper 70s or even the low 80s. Highs over the weekend will be more reminiscent of summer as they will reach the low 80s.

Clouds are expected to return next Monday, but the chance for rain is still low. This is also the last day of the Astronomical Summer as the Autumnal Equinox occurs on Tuesday the 22^nd at 5:05 pm local time. This is when the direct rays of the sun cross the equator, heading south for the winter.  Equal parts daylight and darkness (roughly) will occur Tuesday followed by shorter daylight hours into the fall.

Please, Stay safe and smart.

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