Warmer, sunnier pattern takes shape Wednesday in the PNW

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Sunny skies and warmer temperatures return to the Portland area Wednesday as summer heat begins to build.

The summer season isn't done just yet, near record-breaking heat will continue to build this week. Wednesday's day one of Oregon and Washington's latest warming trend. Sunshine will help temperatures warm into the upper 70s and low 80s for the Willamette Valley on Wednesday. The cool-to-warm start felt from sunrise to sunset will have kids heading back to school dressed in layers.

Summer heat will continue to build as a ridge of high pressure takes shape over the west. Afternoon and evening highs will return to the low to mid 90s by the end of the week. The Pacific Northwest's latest warming trend will take Portland into the unofficial end of summer.

Labor Day weekend will remain dry as temperatures slowly cool. The peak of Portland's heat will be felt Saturday, but low 80s will return by Monday.

The dry and mild stretch of weather will make for a nice end to the Oregon State Fair. Clouds will slowly start to increase across the region next week. That's when the chance for some moisture returns to the region.