~Summer Around the Pacific Northwest~
A FIRE WEATHER WATCH has been issued for much of our forecast area effective Saturday * Click here for all the latest details.......
Exclusive Inland NW Summary Issued: Thursday, August 20, 2026 @ 10:15am
WRITTEN BY: Climatologist Bob Lutz
(Summaries are issued as needed and will be updated more frequently during times of active weather)
SHORT-TERM FORECAST
The potential for gusty winds and dry lightning will likely increase the chance of elevated wildfire weather over the weekend, but in the meantime, it's all about the hot and continued dry weather. In short, high pressure will strengthen and give the area a good dose of heat through the end of the workweek with high temperatures coming in well above normal. Any areas with thicker haze from local wildfire smoke may experience slightly cooler temperatures. Readings should peak on Friday before a storm system offshore begins to influence our pattern, with clouds beginning to increase as early as Friday 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 at least some areas will see spotty precipitation Saturday and Saturday night. 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 they fluctuate with the changing strength of the ridges over the Northwest.
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...
