PENDLETON, Ore. – A restless breeze ripples through the high desert this early Saturday as clouds thicken over the Blue Mountains. The day ahead promises classic fall turbulence — gusty winds, steady rain, and perhaps a few flashes of lightning — as the next Pacific storm sweeps across eastern Oregon.
The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for Pendleton and nearby valleys through Sunday morning. Gusts could reach 45 mph this afternoon and evening, especially along open stretches of I-84. The strongest winds are expected between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., with steady rain likely and a few embedded thunderstorms possible. Brief downpours could create slick spots on rural roads and reduced visibility for drivers heading toward La Grande or Boardman.
Saturday’s high will reach the mid-60s before a sharp cool-down follows. Showers linger through Sunday, with another half inch of rain possible and gusts near 25 mph. By Monday, the pattern quiets — highs near 56°F under partly sunny skies — offering a short break before midweek clouds return.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, including Halloween decorations, ahead of Saturday’s gusts. Farmers and ranchers across Umatilla County may also want to monitor fences and tarps as the system passes.
Long-range models show temperatures trending cooler into Halloween week, with a chance of chilly mornings — perhaps the first whisper of early November frost ahead.
Five-Day Outlook for Pendleton, OR:
Sat: 64/36 – Windy, rain and thunder possible.
Sun: 57/33 – Breezy, scattered showers.
Mon: 56/34 – Mostly sunny, calm.
Tue: 62/38 – Partly sunny, mild.
Wed: 60/37 – Clouds increase, light rain late.
