Pendleton, here we go—spring weather is about to show its wild side! Starting tonight, a storm system will move in, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that will hang around until Thursday morning. Whether you’re planning to be out and about or you’re just trying to get some sleep tonight, here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared while the storm passes through.
What to Expect: Rain and Wind Begin Tonight
Get ready for a wet and windy night ahead. Starting around 6-7 PM, heavy rain will begin to soak Pendleton, and it won’t stop anytime soon. Along with the rain, strong winds will kick in, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph. This storm will not be messing around. If you’re planning to be out on the roads tonight or tomorrow morning, be extra cautious. The combination of rain and high winds will make driving tricky, especially along Interstate 84 and other open areas where the wind can really hit hard.
Along with the wet roads, poor visibility will be an issue, especially in the rain. So, if you’re driving, make sure your headlights are on, and give yourself extra time to get where you need to go. The rain could also cause localized flooding, so keep an eye out for any puddling or water accumulation on the roads, especially in low-lying areas. If you see standing water, turn around—don’t risk driving through it.
Traveling Tonight and Tomorrow Morning: Expect Difficult Conditions
If you don’t absolutely need to be out and about, stay home tonight. The worst of the weather will come after dark, making travel even more difficult. Truckers, in particular, should be cautious, as wind gusts of 50 mph could affect larger vehicles. If you do have to travel, reduce your speed, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and watch out for falling branches or debris along the road. Be sure to check your tires and make sure they’re in good shape to handle slick surfaces.
The storm will persist through Thursday morning, with rain and winds hanging around into the early hours of the day. So, if you have to head out tomorrow morning, make sure to check the latest weather updates before you go. The storm will likely ease up by mid-morning, but conditions may still be a little tricky in the early hours.
When Will the Storm End?
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Tonight (Wednesday): Rain will start around 6-7 PM, with winds picking up, and conditions will continue to worsen throughout the night. The worst of the weather will likely hit between 9 PM and 2 AM, so if you’re out during those hours, be extra careful.
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Thursday Morning: The rain should begin tapering off by 8-10 AM, and the winds will start to calm down as well. There may still be some lingering showers in the morning, but the storm will definitely move out by mid-morning.
How to Stay Safe During the Storm
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Avoid Unnecessary Travel – If you don’t need to be out tonight, stay home and stay warm. If you do need to get somewhere, plan extra time for your journey and slow down on the roads. It’s always better to take your time in these kinds of conditions.
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Secure Loose Outdoor Items – If you’ve got things like patio furniture, planters, or trash cans outside, be sure to bring them inside or secure them. The high winds could turn anything loose into a flying hazard.
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Watch for Fallen Debris – The winds could bring down branches or other debris, so be cautious when walking or driving near trees. If you’re in an area with lots of trees, you might want to take a detour to avoid fallen branches.
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Stay Informed – Weather conditions can change quickly, so keep an eye on the latest forecasts. If you have to leave the house tomorrow, check your route before you go.
How to Prepare for the Storm:
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For Drivers: If you must drive, make sure to check your tires and keep your speed low. The rain will make roads slick, and the strong winds could make it harder to control your vehicle, especially on I-84. Stay alert for any debris or fallen branches, and avoid driving through standing water.
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For Those Staying In: If you’re not leaving the house, make sure you have a cozy spot to ride out the storm. Grab a warm blanket, some tea, and maybe watch a movie while the rain and winds roar outside. If you have to be outside, make sure to dress for the wind and rain—there’s no reason to be caught off guard.
When Will Things Get Better?
Once the storm passes through Thursday morning, things will calm down. By Thursday afternoon, we should see the rain tapering off, and while it may still be breezy, the worst of the weather will have cleared. You can look forward to some quiet, cooler spring days as the storm makes its exit.
So, while the storm tonight and tomorrow morning may cause a bit of a disruption, it won’t stick around for too long. By the time the weekend comes, things should be much calmer, and the sun might even peek out from behind the clouds.
This storm is no joke—wind gusts and rain could create hazardous conditions, especially on the road. So, if you don’t have to travel, stay indoors and wait for the worst of the storm to pass. For those of you who need to be out, be sure to take your time, drive carefully, and stay updated on the latest weather reports.
