Hail & thunderstorms expected in Grant/Harney counties

By on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

JOHN DAY / BURNS – Here’s a heads-up to Grant and Harney County residents. The National Weather Service is reporting a series of thunderstorms are possible over the forecast area beginning this evening and lasting overnight. The agency notes that, “Some storms may be severe with large hail and damaging wind in the evening.”

Folks are reminded that it may be a good idea to secure outdoor objects from the high winds overnight. Also, cover items that you don’t want to get damaged from falling hail. Stay tuned and stay posted to Elkhorn media Group outlets for updates.

Below are some safety tips from the National Weather Service:

(From the NWS)

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.