Strong to severe storms likely Wednesday
The warmer than normal conditions today and Wednesday will come to an end Thursday. The mild pattern is expected to break as storms arrive in the late afternoon Wednesday and change the pattern. The storms are expected to be strong and possibly severe in the region so we need to be weather aware.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed Central Oregon under the Marginal Risk category for severe storms starting in the afternoon Wednesday. The main threat in our region will be gusty winds and hail, but lightning and pockets of heavy rain will accompany the storms. Make sure to secure any objects that may be impacted by gusts near 60 mph and if you have a garage or car port, place your vehicle inside as hail may damage do some damage.
Wednesday will be a very active day weather-wise. Some power outages may occur if trees are downed into power lines. Get some supplies in just in case. This is not a severe outbreak by any stretch, but we will see strong and dangerous storm, so be prepared.
The focus of the strong to severe storms will be west of the Cascades, but we are in line for some robust storms. If you have plans to go to the Valley Wednesday, be ready for very intense storms. Although not in our area, there is a very slight chance, but not zero, of an isolated tornado west of the Cascades.
Once the storms clear the region will be much cooler. The threat of storms will be present until about 8 or 9 pm Wednesday. Following the storms there is still a chance for some off and on showers. This will be the case trough Friday. The combination of the warmer than normal air and the rain this week will allow for the snow to melt aggressively and some creeks and streams and rivers will run fast and full by Friday. Be advised of the fast-moving waterways and keep alert if you are out recreating this weekend. Banks may be compromised by the rushing water and there may be some debris flows or other rain related issues due to the cumulative effect of the rain by the weekend.
Please stay safe.
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