WEATHER ALERT Potential strong thunderstorms, hail and strong winds may strike region on Wednesday

The Pacific Northwest is bracing for a significant weather event, starting with unseasonably warm temperatures on Tuesday, possibly reaching 70 degrees in the Puget Sound region. This warmth is not just a pleasant anomaly; it is expected to lead to mountain snowmelt, prompting a hydrologic outlook. On Wednesday, the region will face a powerful storm system, bringing widespread thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds. The National Weather Service has extended a severe thunderstorm risk area, warning of potential hail up to 2 inches and wind gusts exceeding 60 mph. Local meteorologist Michael Snyder notes that this weather setup is one of the most unstable seen in the region, with risks including damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and even a chance of brief tornadoes.

Thunderstorms are expected to develop early Wednesday morning along the coast, with a second wave forming later in the day. Residents are advised to prepare by securing outdoor items and staying updated through trusted sources. As the week progresses, a cooler, wetter pattern will return, but Wednesday's storm activity will heavily depend on daytime heating, underscoring the need for vigilance.