Weather Eye: Memorial Day weekend looks to be a good one

Monday and Wednesday were almost repeats with sunshine, warm temperatures and those building cumulus clouds over the Cascades trying to make their way westward to the valleys.

What a contrast with the day in between. Solid marine layer with spotty drizzle, highs struggling to get out of the 50s. I always say it depends on which way the wind blows.

With air circulation slightly from the east, our temperature jumps quickly with sunshine. Mid-70s Wednesday, 80 degrees Monday. Then westerly wind and the cool 50s and 60s.

So, what will the big forecast be for the long holiday weekend? In this weather pattern, as I mentioned the other day, it is tricky to pinpoint more than a day of two out. However, I would say not too shabby. Highs should be at least close to or above normal, depending on the sunshine exposure.

We do have another weak low dropping down the British Columbia coast Saturday night that may push marine clouds inland. The main threat of rain would be over the Cascades. So proceed with your outdoor plans but keep an eye to the sky. I do remember so many Memorial Day holidays camping in pouring down rain. No fun. It won’t be that kind of a weekend. Unless you are camping over the mountains and a thundershower finds you.

No matter, we are tough Northwesterners and venture out no matter what the weather. If thunder can be heard, do take caution and be safe. I think the holiday weekend will be a lazy one for many. Fire up those backyard barbecues!

Last year on the long holiday weekend we had highs of about 70 degrees each day. We also had a few showers with .07 and .02 of an inch of rainfall. I suppose we could receive a few hundredths of an inch just about anywhere.

Patrick Timm is a local weather specialist. His column appears Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Reach him at http://patricktimm.com

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