Elevation
Central Oregon's territory lies just east of the Cascades, the mountain
range which divides the dry and wet sides of the state. The closeness
of the peaks contributes to city elevations starting at around two
thousand feet above sea level.
The city of Bend is at 3,630
feet above sea level, Sunriver is at 4,165 feet above sea level, and
La Pine is at 4,200 feet above sea level.
Precipitation
Precipitation in the form of rain, sleet, hail and snow ranges
average 8 - 15 inches. Average precipitation is below 2 inches per
month.*
Rainfall
The Cascade Mountains keeps most of Oregon's precipitation over in the
valley and on the coast, so Central Oregon receives very little rain.
Occasional showers occur during the spring and summer seasons.*
Sunshine
Central Oregon averages 300 sunny days per year.
Snowfall
Snow will usually fly around Thanksgiving and last through
February, depending upon the severity of the winter. Snow often falls
in the evenings before melting off during the day due to high levels of
sunshine. Snowfall in January averages 8.6 inches.
Wind
Surface winds prevail out of the South and Southeast from October
to February, then West and Northwest for the remaining months. Wind
speeds average from 5 to 7 mph most months.
Growing Season
Depending on elevation, Central Oregon has a ninety-two (92) day growing season.
Vegetation
Central Oregon's diverse terrain makes the area unlike any other in
the state. A few of the many plants you can expect to see in Central
Oregon include juniper, sagebrush, manzanita, alder, pine, bitterbrush,
evergreen, and hemlock along with many species of coniferous trees.
*Temperature and Precipitation data from Oregon State University Extension Service
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