Pendleton, Ore. — A brisk start to Saturday is underway across the high desert as a thickening cloud deck drapes the Blue Mountains. A Pacific storm is marching through eastern Oregon, setting the stage for a classic autumn mix of strong winds, steady rainfall, and a few rumbles of thunder.
The National Weather Service has a Wind Advisory in effect for Pendleton and surrounding valleys through Sunday morning. Expect gusts up to 45 mph this afternoon and evening, with the most blustery period likely between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Exposed stretches of I-84 will be especially vulnerable to crosswinds. Periods of steady rain are anticipated, and embedded thunderstorms could pop up. Short, intense downpours may create slick rural roads and reduce visibility for travelers headed toward La Grande or Boardman.
Temperatures will top out in the mid-60s on Saturday before a noticeable cool-down arrives. Showers stick around into Sunday, bringing another half inch of rain in spots and gusts near 25 mph. Conditions quiet by Monday, with highs around 56°F under intervals of sunshine. Enjoy the brief break; midweek looks cloudier again with a chance for light rain returning late Wednesday.
Residents should secure loose items and Halloween decorations ahead of the strongest winds. Farmers and ranchers in Umatilla County may want to check fences, tarps, and other wind-sensitive gear as the system passes.
Looking ahead, long-range guidance points to cooler temperatures into Halloween week. Chilly mornings are increasingly likely, hinting at the season’s first brush with early-November frost.
Five-day snapshot for Pendleton:
– Saturday: 64/36 — Strong winds (gusts to 45 mph), steady rain, isolated thunder.
– Sunday: 57/33 — Breezy with scattered showers; up to 0.5″ additional rainfall; gusts near 25 mph.
– Monday: 56/34 — Mostly sunny and calmer.
– Tuesday: 62/38 — Partly sunny, mild.
– Wednesday: 60/37 — Clouds increase; light rain possible late.
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