Oregon – A pale gray curtain hangs over the Columbia Basin this morning, swallowing headlights and muting sound. Freezing fog and drizzle cling to roads, creating slick travel conditions across Pendleton and surrounding valleys.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Freezing Fog Advisory remains in effect through late morning, while an Air Stagnation Advisory continues into early next week. Visibility has dropped to a quarter mile or less in places, with temperatures hovering near 32 degrees. Moisture freezes on contact, increasing the risk of black ice on untreated roads.
The most dangerous travel conditions are expected along I-84, Highway 11, and rural routes connecting Pendleton, Athena, and Helix. Patchy freezing drizzle before mid-morning may worsen slick spots on bridges and overpasses. Drivers should slow down, use headlights, and leave extra following distance.
Fog and low clouds gradually thin late this morning. Even after visibility improves, icy patches may linger into midday. Afternoon temperatures climb into the upper 30s, offering limited melting before another cold night settles in.
Saturday starts cold again, with lows near 25 and lingering fog in low-lying areas. Sunshine returns by late morning, pushing highs near 40. Saturday night stays cold but calmer, reducing fog coverage slightly.
Sunday brings a brighter but still wintry day. Highs reach near 40 under mostly sunny skies. MLK Day Monday marks a noticeable improvement, with sunshine and highs near 42, making travel and outdoor plans easier by afternoon.
Looking ahead, gradual warming continues into midweek, though cold mornings remain a concern. Air quality may stay poor during stagnant conditions. Plan extra time for early drives and limit outdoor exertion if sensitive to poor air quality. How did visibility look on your commute this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Pendleton, Oregon
- Today: Freezing fog early, gradual clearing, high near 38
- Saturday: Morning fog, mostly sunny, high near 40
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 40
- MLK Day Monday: Sunny, high near 42
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 43
