Weather patterns in Central Oregon (Bend, Redmond: apartment, living in, to move)

[minorbrew]

I am considering relocating to Central Oregon but am concerned about winter weather conditions. I understand snow and cold temperatures can be expected in Bend and increasingly so in the areas west and south of Bend. What differences could you expect in the weather if you lived within 30 miles north or east of Bend?
All comments appreciated.
minorbrew

[BLAZER PROPHET]

Not much of a difference.

[delta07]

I just moved to Bend, and from what I hear, Redmond the the NE of Bend doesn't get as much snow. I don't exactly know what "as much" means. The temps. seem to be a few degrees warmer, but like Blazer Prophet said, not much. If you don't like snow at all, then Central Oregon is probably not a good place to move. However, if you don't mind it, but just don't want massive amounts, such as the great lakes states, then you would probably be okay.

[cabocurtis]

I have traveled extensively to Central Oregon and generally Redmond is usually a few degrees warmer with less to no snow, Bend can have slushy snow especially in the foothills and to the south 16 miles plus to Sunriver a few degrees cooler with more snow than bend. The snow in Bend seems to melt faster and Sunriver stays more a permanent part of the landscape. Sunriver is higher in elevation than Bend which I believe accounts for the difference. All three areas are cold in the winter but with four wheel drive is easy to get around no matter what the conditions.

[minorbrew]

Originally Posted by BLAZER PROPHET

Not much of a difference.

Thanks for your honest reply.
minorbrew

[minorbrew]

Originally Posted by cabocurtis

I have traveled extensively to Central Oregon and generally Redmond is usually a few degrees warmer with less to no snow, Bend can have slushy snow especially in the foothills and to the south 16 miles plus to Sunriver a few degrees cooler with more snow than bend. The snow in Bend seems to melt faster and Sunriver stays more a permanent part of the landscape. Sunriver is higher in elevation than Bend which I believe accounts for the difference. All three areas are cold in the winter but with four wheel drive is easy to get around no matter what the conditions.

Thanks for your reply. I have found that sometimes, within a 20-30 mile radius, neighboring areas may have small but important differences in climate. I am particularly curious about places like Terrebonne and Prineville, compared to Bend.
minorbrew

[Steve Miller]

I've lived in Oregon, well, many years and been stuck in Bend for thirty. I always tell folks (half in jest) Summer starts July 5 and ends Labor Day. Seriously we do have a beautiful Fall season. Winter/Spring can be windy and unpredictable. The further South one goes from Bend, the more snow and cold can be expected. The further North just the opposite. So if you're fearful of the icy elements, go North or East. East will definitely be dryer, but there's nothing out there... The winter weather has been moderating the last ten or so, but who knows. All of the region can get hit with Arctic icy/snowy weather if Mother Nature gets a whim...

[cyanrainbow]

Great Posts! Does the sun shine a lot in Bend? Do you have to have a four wheel drive to get around in the winter? How cold does it get? And does it rain a lot? Can one find jobs there? And what are the best areas for apartment living in Bend? Thanks so much!

[delta07]

Originally Posted by cyanrainbow

Great Posts! Does the sun shine a lot in Bend? Do you have to have a four wheel drive to get around in the winter? How cold does it get? And does it rain a lot? Can one find jobs there? And what are the best areas for apartment living in Bend? Thanks so much!

Cyan,

Check my response in your other post, Is Bend the place for not so religious families. I think I answered most of your questions there.

[cyanrainbow]

Thanks Delta, I think I am getting the hang of this..............