~Summer Around the Pacific Northwest~
Upgraded RED FLAG WARNINGS have now been issued for much of our forecast area effective Saturday * Click here for all the latest details.......
Exclusive Inland NW Summary Issued: Friday, August 21, 2026 @ 11:45am
WRITTEN BY: Climatologist Bob Lutz
(Summaries are issued as needed and will be updated more frequently during times of active weather)
SHORT-TERM FORECAST
Hot and dry weather will continue through today before a storm system offshore begins to influence our pattern, with clouds beginning to increase as early as this afternoon. Gusty winds and the chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms will arrive by Saturday along with slightly cooler temperatures. The track of the storm is still a bit uncertain, but it does appear that some storms will be wet, while others will be on the drier side. The threat of dry lightning and gusty winds remain the main wildfire threats Saturday into early Sunday. Some storms may contain brief heavy rain and hail, but precipitation looks to be more spotty rather than widespread. Following the storm on Sunday, expect breezy conditions along with much cooler temperatures.
LONG-TERM FORECAST
The seemingly never-ending pattern of dry, hot weather still shows no signs of significant change going through the end of the month! High pressure ridges over the eastern Pacific and the desert SW will continue to influence our weather, leaving us with little relief from the severe drought. Temperatures will be on somewhat of a rollercoaster ride as the ridge strength fluctuates throughout the period. This will unfortunately lead to the chance of breezy periods and more elevated wildfire weather at times.
General Short-Term Model Agreement: GOOD
General Long-Term Model Agreement: GOOD
Our hearts and prayers continue to go out to all those affected by the historic Northwest wildfires this season. Please consider making a donation by clicking on the icons below. Having been a part of the Oregon Road Fire Long-Term Recovery Team, I can attest to the fact that these two organizations will keep your donation local. In addition, Innovia has a much lower overhead, which means more of your money goes to the fire victims. Each link will take you directly to the local donation page...
