Pacific Northwest Braces for Rare Large Hail Threat -

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March 25, Oregon: Residents across western Oregon and Washington should prepare for an unusual weather event tomorrow as forecasters warn of potentially damaging hail. The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm alert, with meteorologists predicting some hailstones could reach 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter – roughly the size of a hen’s egg – before storms weaken near the Cascade Mountains.

What to Expect

The I-5 corridor from Eugene to Seattle faces the highest risk
Primary threat: Large hail (1+ inch diameter classifies as severe)
Timing: Storms expected to develop Thursday afternoon
Rarity: Significant hail events are uncommon in the Pacific Northwest

Historical Context

While the Midwest regularly sees baseball-sized hail, such events are exceptional here:
• Oregon’s record: 4-inch hail (Condon, July 1995)
• Western Oregon record: 2-inch hail (Seaside, January 2018)
• U.S. record: 11-inch monster hailstone (South Dakota, 2010)

Safety Recommendations

Park vehicles under cover if possible
Protect sensitive garden plants
Stay weather-aware through afternoon hours
Seek indoor shelter if storms approach

Local emergency managers note that while the hail threat is unusual for our region, the short duration of these storms should limit widespread damage. However, isolated cases of vehicle or crop damage remain possible where the largest stones fall.

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The Storm Prediction Center emphasizes that conditions could change rapidly, urging residents to monitor updated forecasts throughout Thursday. Unlike typical Northwest rain systems, these storms may bring brief but intense periods of hail alongside possible lightning and gusty winds.

While we rarely face Midwestern-style severe weather, tomorrow serves as a reminder that nature can still surprise the Pacific Northwest. Keep an eye to the sky and your phone charged for weather alerts.

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