Salem, Ore. — The National Weather Service says severe thunderstorms are expected across parts of the Pacific Northwest this afternoon and evening, with supercells possible west of the Cascades across Oregon into Washington. These storms may produce large hail, perhaps a tornado or two, and strong wind gusts. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is encouraging people to take caution when travelling in Western Oregon today.

Even if the chance of a tornado or severe storm appears slight, preparing ahead of time can make a significant difference.

Lightning Safety

• When thunder roars, go indoors. If you see lightning or hear thunder, seek shelter inside a sturdy, enclosed building. Do NOT take shelter under trees or open-sided shelters like picnic areas.

• If shelter isn't available, a vehicle with a metal roof, turned off, with the windows closed is safer than remaining outside. Vehicles act as a Faraday cage and will disperse electrical strikes away from you into the ground.

Heavy Rain, Hail & Flooding

• Slow down while driving to avoid hydroplaning or sliding on hail-covered streets.

• Avoid driving through flooded roadways. Even a few inches can be deadly.

• Watch for water accumulation in low-lying areas.

Tornado Preparedness

• The safest place during a tornado is a basement. If that's not available, go to the lowest floor of your home in a small interior room—like a closet or bathroom—away from windows.

• Cover yourself with a mattress or sturdy object to protect against debris.

• If caught outside without shelter, lie in a ditch or culvert and cover your head.

Damaging Winds

• Remain indoors and away from windows.

• Don’t park under trees due to falling limb risk.

• Be aware that falling trees may impact power lines, buildings, and roadways.

• See additional tips for Staying Safe After a Windstorm.

Power Outage Preparedness

Severe weather can lead to power outages. Take these steps now to prepare:

• Charge mobile devices and backup battery packs.

• Assemble an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, drinking water, and necessary medications.

• Have a plan for medical devices that require electricity.

• Store extra blankets or cooling supplies, depending on the season.

• Have books, games, or activities on hand to help pass the time without electricity.

• See additional ’Tips to Stay Safe During Power Outages’

Farm & Livestock Safety

• Secure loose outdoor items like garbage cans, patio furniture, and tools.

• If possible, bring livestock indoors to barn or shelter. Animals often seek shelter under trees or along fences, both of which can be hazardous in thunderstorms.

For More Information

Visit the National Weather Service Thunderstorm Safety website: https://www.weather.gov/safety/thunderstorm

For travel conditions make sure to visit: TripCheck.com
Sign up for emergency alerts at: ORalert.gov

Stay informed by monitoring local weather reports and signing up for OR-Alert to receive emergency notifications directly to your phone. Preparedness today can protect lives tomorrow. Stay alert, stay safe, and be ready.

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email OEM_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov or dial 711.