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 Slight and 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 severe risk will be from gusty winds near 60 mph and possibly some 1” or larger hail. The Slight Risk Category is level 2 on a scale of 5 but any storm with lightning, wind and hail is dangerous, so we need to be aware. Marginal Risk means isolated severe storms are possible, Slight Risk is more numerous storms are likely to occur, severe levels

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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