VIDEO: Portland's cherry blossoms peak, threatened by Wednesday's storms
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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Portland's Tom McCall Waterfront Park cherry blossom trees are in peak bloom, but Wednesday's storms could threaten this spring tradition.
Tuesday's record-breaking temperatures in low 80s helped speed up Portland's cherry tree blooming time rapidly. The sudden pop of color is expected to last for the next week. However, Wednesday's threat of severe weather could bring petals down prematurely.
Gusty wind of nearly 40-60 mph could strip Portland's cherry trees of petals in a matter of minutes. Hail the size of 1-2 inches in diameter could also help shred the freshly bloomed trees. If Portland is able to dodge the brunt of Wednesday's severe weather, then the trees should last through the end of the month.