Thunderstorms, hail forecasted for Wednesday afternoon, wind gusts up to 50 mph

The rain that affected our region yesterday has tapered off overnight and has now stopped. However, keep your umbrellas handy, as there's another chance for showers and thunderstorms this afternoon and early evening.

Temperatures are mild, with readings in the 50s across many areas: 53°F in Connell, 54°F in Tri-Cities, 51°F in Walla Walla, and 52°F in Hermiston. Behind the front, temperatures are in the 40s with clearing skies. Breezy conditions are already present this morning, with winds from the south and west at 15-25 mph, gusting over 30 mph in some areas. A wind advisory is in effect until 5 PM today, particularly affecting Northeast Oregon, including Hermiston, where gusts could reach 50 mph. Other regions may experience gusts up to 40 mph.

Showers and thunderstorms could redevelop by noon, becoming more widespread in the afternoon. Main threats include lightning and small hail. Today will be cooler and breezy with temperatures reaching 64°F in Tri-Cities, 62°F in Hermiston, 59°F in Walla Walla, and 61°F in Toppenish. Showers and storms will diminish by sunset, with mostly cloudy skies overnight and winds calming down.

Weather Highlights:

• Today:

  • Daytime: Showers and thunderstorms likely, breezy conditions.
  • Highs: 64°F in Tri-Cities, 62°F in Hermiston, 59°F in Walla Walla, 61°F in Toppenish.
  • Winds: South and west, 15-25 mph, gusts up to 50 mph in some areas.
  • Evening: Showers diminishing, mostly cloudy skies.

• Tonight:

  • Lows: 46°F in Tri-Cities, 44°F in Walla Walla, 40°F in Dayton, 41°F in Toppenish, 42°F in Yakima.
  • Winds: Diminishing, cooler temperatures.

• Tomorrow (Thursday):

  • Morning: Cloudy start.
  • Afternoon: More sunshine, warmer temperatures.
  • Highs: Low to mid 70s.
  • May’s Full Moon: Flower Moon, visible tomorrow night and early Friday morning (moonrise at 9:26 PM Thursday).

• Friday:

  • Highs: Upper 70s.
  • Weather: Mostly sunny and warm.

• Saturday:

  • Highs: Lower 70s.
  • Weather: Brief cooldown.

• Sunday:

  • Highs: Back into the 70s.
  • Weather: Warming trend continues.

• Early Next Week:

  • Highs: Reaching into the 80s.
  • Weather: Warm and favorable for Memorial Day outdoor plans.

Stay prepared for changing weather conditions and enjoy the gradual warmup as we head towards Memorial Day.

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