Severe thunderstorms batter Harney County with destructive winds and hail

HARNEY COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) — Severe thunderstorms are sweeping across Harney County this afternoon, bringing dangerous winds, large hail, and rapidly changing conditions to the region.

Central Oregon is also experiencing strong storms, thunder, and toppled trees, and our weather team is tracking possible inch-sized hail.

Here's what you need to know about a Severe Weather Threat.

The National Weather Service first warned of a strong storm near Coleman Mountain, about 34 miles east of Burns, just before 2 p.m. That storm was moving northwest at around 45 miles per hour and capable of producing tennis ball-sized hail and wind gusts up to 70 mph.

Since then, conditions have intensified. Forecasters say a new round of storms in northwestern Harney County is now producing even stronger winds — up to 80 mph — along with ping pong ball-sized hail. These storms are being described as “destructive,” with the potential for widespread damage.

Storms are tracking near areas including Yellowjacket Campground, Sheep Lake, Delintment Lake, Buck Springs, and Williams Reservoir through the mid-afternoon hours. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect across southeastern Oregon until 8 p.m.

The biggest concerns are damaging winds and large hail, which could shatter windows, dent vehicles, and bring down trees and power lines. Mobile homes and outbuildings are especially at risk, and anyone caught outside could be injured by flying debris.

Meteorologists say storms have slowed in some areas, which could prolong the threat in spots already seeing severe weather.

Residents are urged to take shelter immediately if a storm approaches, moving indoors to the lowest level of a sturdy building and staying away from windows.