Tornadoes, 60 mph winds, large hail could hit Portland area on Wednesday
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Severe weather threatens the Pacific Northwest Wednesday as hail, wind, and a tornado chance return to the region.
Spring-like temperatures will help increase the spring-like storm potential Wednesday afternoon. Storms are expected to move north after developing near Eugene around 2 p.m. Storms are expected to strengthen as they move along the Willamette Valley. The best chance for severe weather will occur around Portland at about 4 p.m.
A "Slight Risk" for severe weather stretches from Douglas County to Seattle on Wednesday. A slight risk means there is a two out of five chance to see severe weather in western Oregon and Washington.
The Portland National Weather Service categorizes severe weather as a storm that produces winds of 58 mph or stronger. It could also mean storms are capable of producing 1" diameter size hail. A thunderstorm could have one or both of these weather events to prompt a severe thunderstorm warning. Even though lighting can be deadly, it does not fall under the severe weather category. However, "when thunder roars, go indoors."
An isolated tornado or two isn't out of the equation on Wednesday afternoon. It's not guaranteed, but now is a good time to revisit your safe space locations. Staying away from windows and doors along with outside walls is the best location to hide if under a tornado warning. A basement is the best place to seek shelter in the event of a tornado.
Stay with the KOIN 6 Weather Team as the threat of severe weather ramps up Wednesday.