Pendleton, OR – Residents across eastern Oregon and southeast Washington should prepare for a wet and cooler start to the week, with multiple rounds of Pacific moisture forecast to move into the region beginning Sunday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, rain chances increase from Monday through Wednesday night, with the Cascade crest, far upper eastern Cascade slopes, and the high northern Blue Mountains facing the greatest likelihood of measurable precipitation. Forecasters say these areas have more than a 50% chance of receiving over half an inch of rain during the three-day period.
Lower rainfall totals are expected in the rain-shadowed zones of south-central Washington and central Oregon, though scattered showers remain possible. The cooling trend will also bring daytime highs down significantly, with cities such as Bend, Pendleton, and Yakima dropping from the mid-80s over the weekend into the upper 60s by Wednesday.
The shift in weather is expected to reduce fire weather concerns. “Higher afternoon humidity and near-average temperatures next week will help dampen fire risks,” forecasters noted.
Residents are encouraged to plan for wet commutes, especially in mountain passes and foothills, and monitor daily updates for changing conditions.
