National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's GOES-West satellite captured images and video of a massive storm off the West Coast of the U.S. on Wednesday morning, March 26, 2024.
Courtesy National Weather Service
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for parts of Oregon and Washington until 9 p.m. Wednesday.
Forecasters warned much of the Willamette Valley, including Multnomah, Clackamas, Benton and Polk counties, could see damaging winds, tornadoes and potentially lime-sized hail. The alert also includes Hood River and Columbia counties.
A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of Oregon and Washington until 9 PM PDT pic.twitter.com/aPT6bvM20m
— NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) March 26, 2025
According to the National Weather Service, there’s a slight chance of tornadoes throughout the Willamette Valley and Southwest Washington lowlands, including along the I-5 corridor, starting Wednesday afternoon.
“The highest threat is likely for hail, with the largest hail expected to have a diameter around 1.75-2 inches,” read the NWS Portland area forecast discussion. “Damaging winds up to 60-70 miles per hour will be possible (localized around thunderstorms), along with a 5% chance of tornados.”
If you are caught in a hailstorm, officials say you should stay inside and away from windows. If you’re driving, the weather service suggests slowing down and pulling your car over to a safe location.
There is potential for thunderstorms with hail forecasted to affect the area today. Hail has potential to exceed the size of a golf ball. If you find yourself caught in a hailstorm, remember to take shelter whether it's indoors or in your car. #ORWX #WAWX pic.twitter.com/o6yvV5gUoK
— NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) March 26, 2025
In a press release, officials with the Oregon Department of Transportation warned commuters to expect possible delays or service interruptions, especially in areas that are prone to flooding.
“Never drive through standing water, as it can be deeper than it appears and may hide hazards or cause your vehicle to stall,” read their press release. “Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially when visibility is poor.”
Potential thunderstorms and high winds with scattered gusts up to 70 miles per hour could knock down trees or power lines. Electric utilities warn this could lead to potential power outages.
Clark and Cowlitz counties in Southwest Washington are also under a severe thunderstorm watch through 9 p.m. Wednesday.
