Urgent Tornado Warning: Three States Brace for Severe Storms and Twisters Today

Severe Storm Threatens Pacific Northwest with Rare Tornado Risk
(Include image: Satellite map showing storm approaching the Pacific Northwest with caption: "A powerful storm system targets the Pacific Northwest, bringing rare tornado risks. Credit: NOAA")

A dangerous storm is sweeping into the Pacific Northwest, posing a rare threat of tornadoes in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington—states that typically see only 2–3 weak tornadoes annually. Major cities like Seattle, Portland, Tacoma, and Vancouver face the highest risk Wednesday into Thursday. Meteorologists attribute the severe weather to unseasonably warm temperatures, 10–20°F above average, creating ideal conditions for violent thunderstorms.

Storm Impacts: Winds, Hail, and Flooding
The system could unleash wind gusts up to 60 mph, hail, and heavy rain, with isolated tornadoes possible west of the Cascade Mountains. AccuWeather warns winds may snap tree limbs and topple shallow-rooted trees, posing risks to outdoor activities. The storm follows a deadly outbreak in the central U.S. earlier this month, which killed 40 people.

(Include image: Radar animation of thunderstorms with caption: "Severe thunderstorms may produce damaging winds and hail across the region. Credit: AccuWeather")

Flood and Mudslide Threats
Heavy rainfall (2–4 inches, locally up to 8 inches) raises concerns for flash flooding and mudslides along the Cascades’ western slopes. Higher elevations in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington may see snow as temperatures drop later in the week.

Record Heat Fuels Unstable Conditions
Extreme warmth intensified the storm’s severity. Portland hit 80°F Tuesday, shattering a 1966 record. Seattle and Tacoma also neared historic highs. “Warmth near the ground combined with cooler upper air creates instability, fueling severe storms,” explained AccuWeather’s Grady Gilman.

(Include image: Thermometer graphic with caption: "Record-breaking March temperatures in the Pacific Northwest. Credit: National Weather Service")

Another Storm Looms
A second potent system is forecast to strike Northern California, including San Francisco, by next Tuesday. Meanwhile, NOAA warns a collapsing polar vortex could plunge the U.S. into another cold snap by late March, potentially disrupting travel with freezing temperatures.

Residents are urged to monitor weather alerts, secure outdoor items, and avoid travel during severe conditions.

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