August 20, 2025 4:00 a.m. 

Almost a week of above normal temperatures are coming to the Umpqua Valley, with the potential for near record highs starting later in the week.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Medford told News Radio 93-9 FM and 1240 KQEN that conditions will heat up beginning on Thursday with highs in the lower 90s. A big ridge of high pressure means that Friday through at least Monday, highs will be in the mid to upper 90s, with new record high temperatures for the date possible on Saturday. The normal high temperature for this week in August is 86 degrees. Forecasters said temperatures won’t begin to cool much until next Wednesday or Thursday.

An Extreme Heat Watch is already in place for inland areas in western Oregon north of Cottage Grove. It will take effect late Friday morning and remain through early Monday. To the south, the Rogue Valley is forecast to see highs in or near the triple digits from Thursday through next Tuesday.

Listen to News Radio 93-9 FM and 1240 KQEN and check www.541radio.com to stay connected with updated weather information.