Thunderstorm Wind in Wasco County, Oregon

Strong winds estimated at 100-115 mph downed portions of two high tension power towers.

A major severe weather event by Pacific Northwest standards occurred over central and northeast Oregon and southeast Washington on May 30th. A powerful upper level storm system moved across the area during the afternoon and evening helping to trigger severe thunderstorms. The airmass was unusually unstable for this area of the country with surface dewpoints well into the 60s. With strong upper level winds in place the stage was set for numerous fast moving intense storms through the afternoon and early evening. Numerous reports of large hail and damaging winds were received with most of the hail falling in central Oregon. There were multiple reports of significant hail (2 inch in diameter) and winds in excess of 75 mph. Winds were estimated as high as 115 mph in Wasco County, OR.