Thunderstorms possible Tuesday around Portland metro
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Thunderstorms are possible as a few sun breaks help destabilize the atmosphere Tuesday afternoon.
Heavy rain is expected to be widespread in western Oregon and Washington Tuesday morning. Rain showers will slow by the afternoon as a few sun breaks warms the Willamette Valley to the mid 50s. It's that mild warming trend that could increase the thunderstorm potential by the afternoon and evening hours.
Lightning, thunder, small hail, heavy rain and gusty winds are the biggest threats associated with Tuesday's thunderstorm potential. The greatest chance to see lightning around the Portland metro area is between 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Rain accumulation could be a half-inch to three-quarters of an inch by the end of the day Tuesday.
Slightly drier and warmer conditions are expected later in the week. Rain remains in the forecast but transitions to the overnight hours Wednesday.
The threat of thunderstorms decreases after Tuesday evening. Scattered rain showers are likely across western Oregon and Washington through the end of the week and into the weekend. The rain potential will hopefully help May get a head start of the monthly rain totals. This comes as April will likely come to a close with a rain deficit.