Thanksgiving weekend arrived in Bend with cold temperatures, but dry skies. With the first day of winter just three weeks away, Central Oregonians might be left wondering: Is snow on the horizon?

It appears that will be the case Thursday for residents in areas above 3,000 feet, such as Bend, Sunriver and La Pine, as a winter weather system moves into the area, with subsequent weather systems Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What’s my elevation?

What’s my elevation?

Bend elevation: 3,623 feet

Mt. Bachelor base elevation: 5,700 feet

Sunriver elevation: 4,164 feet

Redmond elevation: 3,077 feet

Sisters elevation: 3,182 feet

La Pine elevation: 4,236 feet

Prineville elevation: 2,868 feet

Joe Solomon, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service office in Pendleton, said some of the higher elevations could see 2 to 3 feet of snow this week, with lower mountain elevations receiving 1 to 2.

While Solomon said Bend will likely only see a dusting on Thursday, nighttime temperatures will be in the low to mid 20s. In areas near Sunriver and La Pine, he predicts residents could see 1 to 2 inches accumulate through Friday.

Colder temperatures and snow are expected to continue into Friday and Saturday, with some areas experiencing mixed precipitation as weather warms into Sunday and Monday. Beginning late Saturday, the snow levels rise to around 5,000 to 6,000 feet.

“This doesn’t look to be a big winter storm, and then snow levels rise,” said Solomon. “(But) there’s a good chance of decent snow before it rains.”

Last week, Mt. Bachelor ski area delayed its opening day amid below-average snowfall for this time of year, citing safety concerns and low snowpack. At the time, the resort needed “about another foot” to open safely, said Lauren Burke, spokesperson for the ski area.

There is still no indication on what day the mountain will open, but John Merriman, president and CEO of Mt. Bachelor, is optimistic.

“We are excited and optimistic about the snow expected to head our way later this week and through the weekend. Our team has been able to capitalize on colder temps earlier this week to make some additional snow in the Pine Marten (lift) area,” Merriman said. “Our team will be working around the clock to prep the mountain to open this weekend if the forecast holds true to what we’re seeing today.”

With cooling temperatures and snow in the forecast, people are also preparing for winter driving, with appointments to swap winter tires at Les Schwab Tire Centers booked through the rest of the year. The city of Bend also has information published on its website to help residents prepare for winter.

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For those in need of winter gear, NeighborImpact, The Bethlehem Inn and Shepherd’s House Ministries distribute lightly-used winter donations. All three nonprofits are also accepting used items and monetary donations.