A rare and potentially dangerous weather event is expected to impact parts of Oregon and the broader Pacific Northwest on Wednesday, with the possibility of large hail, damaging winds, and even isolated tornadoes—an unusual combination for the region.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a level 2 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms across areas of western Oregon and Washington. This elevated risk includes cities along the Interstate 5 corridor, such as Portland, Salem, and Eugene, as well as Seattle and Tacoma in Washington.
What makes this forecast especially notable is just how uncommon severe storms—particularly those capable of producing tornadoes—are in this part of the country. According to the FOX Forecast Center, this is the first time downtown Seattle has been under a level 2 threat since the SPC updated its outlook system over a decade ago. For Oregon, residents in Portland and the Willamette Valley should be aware that these conditions are highly atypical for this time of year.
Wednesday’s storm potential is being fueled by warmer-than-usual temperatures, which will help trigger thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening hours. While not every storm will become severe, the most intense cells could produce hail ranging in size from quarters to eggs, especially along the I-5 corridor. This includes a broad swath of western Oregon from Eugene through Portland.
In addition to large hail, forecasters warn that strong wind gusts are possible, and while the tornado threat remains low, it’s not zero. Areas from Eugene northward should remain alert for fast-developing conditions. A brief tornado spin-up cannot be ruled out, particularly in southern Washington and northern Oregon.
According to meteorologists, the timing of these storms could affect the late afternoon and early evening commute, especially in areas west and east of the I-5 corridor. In Oregon, drivers in Portland and Salem may encounter heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds during peak travel hours.
While severe weather of this magnitude is rare for Oregon, it's important to stay weather-aware. Residents are encouraged to monitor alerts from the National Weather Service and prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
Source: Fox Weather
