The temperature difference between noon today (Wednesday) and yesterday was quite large west of the Cascade crest (see chart below). Some locations were 15-20F cooler, especially in southwest Washington and northwest Oregon.
Temperatures in the Columbia Basin remain virtually constant.
As cold air flows across the coastal region, low-level air pressure increases there, creating a greater pressure difference over the Cascades.
This increased pressure difference increases westerly winds (winds from the west) and we can see winds picking up on the eastern slopes of the Cascades. For example, winds in Ellensburg are currently gusting over 35 mph (see diagram below).
Such increased wind volume will lead to increased wind energy production (see green line below), which is good…we need it.
Temperatures in western Washington will continue to drop over the next few days.
Let me show you the latest UW team of high-resolution forecasts for temperatures in Seattle. Highs of around 85F today and 80F tomorrow. Nighttime temperatures dropping into the upper 50s. A good night’s sleep is calling.
The NBM forecast is similar and very boring. No heat wave. No cold wave. Just perfect weather rising to the low 80s.
In contrast, temperatures in the Tri-Cities will remain around 100F during the same period (see below).
No rain is forecast on either side of the Cascades next week.
Enjoy the weather.
