Severe Weather Expected Across Northwest and Maryland on Wednesday

PORTLAND, Ore. — A significant storm system is expected to affect the Portland metro area on Wednesday, bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds until 7 p.m. The National Weather Service has issued alerts to keep residents informed of the dangerous conditions.

Forecasts predict heavy downpours in the Willamette Valley, with wind gusts reaching between 30 and 40 mph. Meteorologist Matt Zaffino stated that while Wednesday will see substantial rain, Thursday’s weather is expected to be milder, with gusts peaking at only 23 to 30 mph.

Drivers are advised to exercise caution on wet roads and allow extra travel time due to potential hazards. The KGW Weather Impact Alerts aim to provide timely notifications about severe weather to help families stay safe.

Meanwhile, in Sacramento, Calif., strong winds are anticipated as a storm moves into the area. The valley may experience wind gusts of 30 mph, with even stronger gusts expected in the Sierra, reaching up to 65 mph. Moderate rain is forecasted for much of the day.

This storm has the potential to cause travel delays, as roads could be slick and flooded. As rainfall begins early Wednesday, drivers should be prepared for hazardous road conditions, especially in areas prone to flooding.

In addition to rain, snowfall is expected at higher elevations, with mountain snowfall levels dropping to around 7,000 feet by late Wednesday. The Northern Oregon Coast is also seeing some lightning strikes, which could affect travel safety.

Baltimore, Maryland, is also bracing for inclement weather, with an Alert Day declared for Thursday due to expected thunderstorms and a small risk for tornadoes. Rain is forecast to begin early and persist through the day, which may lead to power outages and difficult driving conditions.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through various local news apps and report any power outages immediately to service providers.