Warm pattern for now, hot conditions returning for the weekend

Bend, OR (KTVZ).  The region will be experiencing near normal temperatures today and Friday but return to the 90s for several days starting Saturday.

There will be a building ridge of high pressure off the coast that is likely to remain in place through next week.  The normal high temperature for mid-July is around the low to middle 80s, but we will be looking at middle to upper 90s next week.

The highs Friday will still be in the 80s, but the trend toward warmer air begins.  Plenty of sunshine will dry out the region and our fire danger will increase as the weekend comes upon us.

The Drought Monitor is released each Thursday and this week we have almost no change in our coverage of drought. We are still in the “Abnormally Dry” range with only a small portion of NE Crook County in the “Moderate Drought” category.  Stream flows are impacted across the region and the plants are stressed due to the drier than normal ground. This does have an impact on fire growth potential as drier grasses and brush obviously ignite and burn at a higher pace.

Remember, if you are outside enjoying beautiful Central Oregon or beyond, stay hydrated and take frequent breaks if you are exerting yourself a bit. Light colored clothes reflect the solar energy best and keep you slightly cooler.

Please stay safe and have fun.

Don’t forget to download the KTVZ weather app to stay safe and informed.

iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ktvz-local-alert-weather-app/id1088330817

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ktvz.android.weather&hl=en_US