Typically, severe storms impact transportation and cause utility loss. Most storms move into Oregon from the Pacific Ocean.
The following are severe storm elements (using National Weather Service definitions):
High Winds
Storms with sustained winds of 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or greater, not caused by thunderstorms, expected to last for an hour or more.
Severe Thunderstorm
Storms that produce winds of 58 mph or greater or three-quarter inch or larger hail.
Tornado
A storm with a violently rotating column of air that contacts the ground. Tornadoes usually develop from severe thunderstorms and can produce winds of 100 to 300 mph.
Winter Storm
A storm with significant snowfall, ice, and/or freezing rain. The quantity of precipitation varies by elevation. Heavy snowfall is:
- Four inches or more in a 12-hour period, or six or more inches in a 24-hour period in non-mountainous areas.
- 12 inches or more in a 12-hour period or 18 inches or more in a 24- hour period in mountainous areas.
Blizzard
A storm with considerable falling and/or blowing snow combined with sustained winds or frequent gusts of 35 mph or greater which often reduces visibility to less than one-quarter mile.
Taking Appropriate Action
It is important to know what actions you need to take to protect yourself, family, pets, and property from the impacts of severe weather. Use the resources below to help plan for bad weather.
Resources