Pendleton, OR – Gray skies stretch across the Blue Mountains this morning as steady rain taps rooftops and slicks the fields along I-84. It’s a damp, chilly start for eastern Oregon travelers heading out for Thanksgiving gatherings — and conditions will stay wet through much of the day.
According to the National Weather Service, a 50% chance of rain persists today, with highs near 51°F and light southeast winds. Showers are expected to become steadier through the afternoon and evening, potentially reducing visibility on area highways. Thanksgiving Day stays damp, with highs around 50°F and another 40% chance of rain, most likely after midday.
By Thursday night into Friday, a stronger system moves in, bringing rain likely and colder air behind it. Temperatures will fall into the mid-30s by Friday night as precipitation lingers. Forecasters say a rain-snow mix could develop late Friday into Saturday morning, particularly at higher elevations west and south of Pendleton. Snow levels may briefly drop near 1,800 feet, a possible early sign of Oregon’s winter transition.
Across the U.S., a major Arctic front is expected to sweep south by December 1, setting up heavy snow and below-normal temperatures from the Rockies through the Midwest. That system could complicate post-Thanksgiving travel, so Oregon residents planning returns early next week should monitor conditions closely.
Locally, expect rain through Friday, possible snow flurries Saturday, and a clearer but colder pattern heading into Sunday.
5-Day Outlook for Pendleton:
- Wednesday: Chance of rain, high 51°F
- Thursday (Thanksgiving): Rain possible, high 50°F
- Friday: Rain likely, high 45°F
- Saturday: Rain/snow mix, high 42°F
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high 41°F
