Portland, Ore. – Residents across Oregon and Washington should prepare for scattered thunderstorms Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons that could bring lightning, gusty winds and a risk of new fire starts.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, the highest risk zones include areas east of Interstate 5 and the Cascades, where thunder chances range from 10% to 30%. The storms are expected to develop each afternoon and persist through evening hours.
Communities including Bend, Hood River, and The Dalles could experience lightning strikes capable of igniting dry fuels. Travel through Cascade passes may also be affected by sudden downpours and reduced visibility. NWS officials urge residents to move indoors when thunder is heard and avoid outdoor activities in open terrain.
While not every location will see storms, even isolated lightning strikes could spark fast-moving fires given current dry conditions. Gusty winds may also spread existing wildfires. Emergency officials advise charging devices ahead of time, keeping fire safety kits ready, and avoiding outdoor burning until the threat passes.
Thunderstorm chances will continue into Wednesday evening, with updates from NWS expected as conditions evolve.
