Climate Summary (made with AI, use with caution)
| Irrigon, Oregon Climate Summary Location Eastern Oregon, near the Columbia River Climate Type Semi-arid Average Temperature • January: 28°F (-2°C) • July: 75°F (24°C) • Annual: 51°F (11°C) Average Precipitation • Annual: 8.5 inches (220 mm) • Driest month: July (0.1 inches) • Wettest month: December (1.5 inches) Sunshine • Average annual sunshine: 300 days Wind • Prevailing wind direction: West • Average wind speed: 12 mph (19 km/h) Climate Characteristics • Hot, dry summers Temperatures can reach over 100°F (38°C) in July and August. • Cold, wet winters Temperatures can drop below freezing in January and February, and snow is possible. • Low humidity Relative humidity is typically below 50%, making the air feel dry. • Strong winds The Columbia River Gorge creates a wind tunnel effect, resulting in strong winds throughout the year. • Limited precipitation Most precipitation falls during the winter months, with very little rainfall during the summer. Climate Impacts • Agriculture The semi-arid climate is suitable for dryland farming, with crops such as wheat, barley, and hay being grown. • Recreation The area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. • Water supply The limited precipitation and high evaporation rates can strain water resources, especially during the summer months. • Wildfires The dry conditions and strong winds can contribute to the risk of wildfires. |
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| Facts & Historical Information (made with AI, use with caution)
| Natural History • Irrigon is nestled along the Columbia River, known for its salmon and steelhead runs. • The area is home to diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, and deer. • The nearby Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat for over 200 bird species. Science • Irrigon is located in the Columbia Plateau, a vast lava field formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. • The area's unique geology has created numerous basalt cliffs and canyons, including the scenic Wallula Gap. • The Hanford Nuclear Reservation, located nearby, played a significant role in the development of the atomic bomb. Personalities • Chief Timothy, leader of the Cayuse tribe, had a village near present-day Irrigon. • John Day, an early explorer, traversed the area in 1811, giving his name to the nearby John Day River. • Maryhill Museum of Art, located across the river from Irrigon, houses a renowned collection of sculptures and paintings. |
| Tourist Attractions
| 1.Hat Rock State Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing. The park is home to Hat Rock, a 350-foot-tall volcanic plug that is a popular climbing destination. 2.The Columbia River Gorge is a scenic canyon that is home to numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, and viewpoints. The gorge is a popular destination for sightseeing, hiking, and fishing. 3.The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a rich fossil record of the Miocene epoch. The monument is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fossil hunting. |
| Nearby Cities:| Umatilla, OR | | Hermiston, OR | Boardman, OR | | Stanfield, OR | Highland, WA | | Yakima, WA | | Kennewick, WA | Pasco, WA | | Richland, WA | Wenatchee, WA | | Walla Walla, WA | Moses Lake, WA | | Ellensburg, WA | Pendleton, OR | | Sunnyside, WA | The Dalles, OR | | West Richland, WA | |
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