Mountain Snow Arrives, Light Rain Across High Desert

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Light rain and mist are defining the day across the high desert in Central Oregon, as the region will be wet and chilly past midnight. The mountains are getting some snow, with accumulations of 5-7 inches expected at the resorts by midnight, making for a great day on the slopes tomorrow. The high desert will see the rain and mist end before midnight, with the potential for some fog and black ice developing, especially in the higher elevations.

Why it matters

This winter weather system is bringing much-needed precipitation to the region, which has been experiencing above-normal temperatures for the past week. The snow in the mountains will provide a boost to the ski season, while the rain and mist in the high desert could create some hazardous driving conditions, especially for those traveling through mountain passes.

The details

The rain and mist in the high desert will end a bit before midnight, with the potential for fog and black ice developing, especially in the higher elevations. Travel through mountain passes tonight will be tricky due to the slick and icy roads. In the mountains, the precipitation started as rain but is now mostly snow above 6,500 feet, with accumulations of 5-7 inches expected by midnight.

• The rain and mist in the high desert will end a bit before midnight.
• The mountain snow started as rain but is now mostly snow above 6,500 feet, with accumulations of 5-7 inches expected by midnight.