Pendleton, OR – A surge in warm spring temperatures followed by midweek rainfall is expected to raise flood risks across northeast Oregon, particularly around Pendleton. The National Weather Service warns that snowmelt from unseasonably warm conditions in the 60s and 70s will coincide with rain beginning Wednesday night, increasing stream and river levels by early Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, the John Day River near Service Creek is forecast to reach minor flood stage by Thursday morning, peaking early Friday. The Grande Ronde River at Troy and the Naches River near Cliffdell may also rise, but are less likely to hit flood stage. Motorists traveling U.S. Route 395 near affected waterways should monitor road conditions and stay alert for fast-moving water.
People recreating near creeks and rivers should use caution. Flows will be swift and water temperatures remain dangerously cold, raising the risk of hypothermia.
Five-Day Weather Outlook:
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 78°F. Evening rain chances increase to 50%.
- Thursday: Widespread rain expected, high near 64°F. Precipitation probability 80%.
- Friday: Chance of showers, high near 58°F. Overnight lows in the mid-30s.
- Saturday: Dry, mostly sunny, low near 37°F.
- Sunday: Slight chance of rain, high near 63°F, lows in the upper 30s.
