Pendleton, OR – The sound of wind rattles signs and shakes tree limbs across Eastern Oregon this morning as gusts push past 50 mph from the southwest. The National Weather Service Wind Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. Saturday, covering the Columbia River Gorge, Blue Mountain foothills, and Simcoe Highlands.
Winds between 25–35 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph, have already been reported in exposed ridgelines and open valleys. Drivers of high-profile vehicles, especially on I-84 between The Dalles and Pendleton, should use extreme caution. Unsecured items may be tossed around, and isolated power outages are possible.
By late morning, gusts will ease as clouds thin briefly, but the calm won’t last long. Rain chances increase Sunday and Monday, signaling a wet start to the week as Pacific moisture sweeps inland. Temperatures will stay seasonable — highs near 53°F to 59°F, lows in the 40s — but with periods of rain likely through midweek.
This early December stretch marks the shift toward Oregon’s stormy season, when strong winds and rain often trade days in quick succession. Meteorologists say another round of steady rain is likely by Tuesday, with gusty breezes returning late in the week.
Five-Day Outlook (Pendleton, OR)
Sunday: Rain likely, high 53°F, low 43°F.
Monday: Cloudy, rain likely, high 59°F, low 46°F.
Tuesday: Showers, high 58°F, low 44°F.
Wednesday: Rain, high 56°F, low 45°F.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 58°F.
