Warm temperatures should continue in region

The last five days of summer will continue to bring warm temperatures to the Inland Northwest despite a weak weather system crossing the region today.

Clouds and a slight chance of showers are in today’s forecast. North Idaho has a slight chance of thunderstorms, especially in the mountains.

Breezy southwest winds could bring gusts to about 20 mph in Spokane and Coeur d’Alene.

Highs today should reach the upper 70s to lower 80s.

Today’s low pressure wave will cause temperatures to drop 3-4 degrees, but the change is likely to blow away some of the wildfire smoke hovering over the region in recent days. Spokane’s air quality was in the moderate range Wednesday because of smoke particles.

Highs Friday under mostly sunny skies should reach 78 in Spokane and 75 in Coeur d’Alene.

Sandpoint will see similar weather with highs going from 75 today to 73 on Friday. There is a greater risk of showers there today and tonight.

Another warm up from a new high pressure system is set to move into the region for the weekend, bringing sunshine and temperatures in the 80s in Spokane and Coeur d’Alene and the middle and upper 70s near Sandpoint.

Pullman will be warm, going from 80 today to 76 on Friday and back to the 80s on Saturday and Sunday. The Colville region should see some of the warmest temperatures in the region with highs going from the low 80s today to the middle 80s on Sunday.

The Lake Roosevelt recreation areas will also stay in the 80s through Sunday with just a slight chance of showers today.

Higher elevations of the mountains will be 10 to 15 degrees cooler than valley areas.

Autumn officially arrives at 7:29 p.m. Monday with the fall equinox.