Pendleton, Oregon – Isolated thunderstorms could roll across parts of central and eastern Oregon through Saturday night, bringing the risk of lightning, brief downpours, and gusty winds to cities like Bend, Redmond, and Baker City.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, a marginal risk for thunderstorms remains in effect for southern and eastern Oregon, including the Bend, Prineville, La Grande, John Day, and Ontario areas, from Friday afternoon through late Saturday. The most likely window for storms will be during the late afternoon and evening hours, when cells may develop quickly and drift across the region.
Residents in Baker City, Burns, and Jordan Valley should watch for fast-moving storms that could impact outdoor plans or cause brief disruptions on highways such as U.S. 97 and U.S. 20. Lightning strikes and locally heavy rain are possible, especially in rural areas and higher terrain. If thunder roars, head indoors and avoid open fields or isolated trees.
While widespread severe weather is not expected, people traveling or working outside should remain alert and keep phones charged for potential alerts. This pattern marks the first organized thunderstorm activity of the spring for much of eastern Oregon.
Marginal thunderstorm risk continues through Saturday night, with updated outlooks expected from the NWS. Stay tuned for the latest advisories and be prepared to adjust plans if storms develop.
