Local Alert Weather Day – Thursday: Strong to severe storms possible in the afternoon

Bend, Ore (KTVZ) – Showers and storms are expected across Central Oregon for the next few days with Thursday being the most active.  There is an area of low pressure that will become nearly stationary over northern California this week an that feature will be the driving force behind the rainy and stormy weather.

A Local Alert Weather Day will be in effect Thursday as the threat of strong storms are in the forecast. The Storm Prediction Center has Central Oregon in the Marginal Risk Category for severe storms with gusty winds and 1” hail being the concerns. We are issuing this to alert not alarm you, but we need you to be safe. Plans that include any outdoor activities Thursday may need to be adjusted.

Thursday will be the most active day this week and there is a better chance for thunderstorms to develop in the afternoon. The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of the region under a marginal risk for severe storms Thursday. The main threat will be in Idaho and we are on the fringe of the instability, but we do have some robust storms on the way. The severe risk will be from gusty winds near 60 mph and possibly some 1” or larger hail. The Marginal Risk is only level 1 on a scale of 5 but any storm with lightning is dangerous, so we need to be aware.

If you have plans for hiking, biking or kayaking this Wednesday or Thursday, be aware that storms will be brewing in the afternoon. Mainly Thursday, but some may pop late Wednesday.

Please, Stay Safe

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