Boardman Businesses Brace for Midweek Thunderstorms, Potential Hail and High Winds

Local business owners and agricultural operations in Boardman are preparing for a bout of severe weather expected to sweep through the Columbia River Gorge region Wednesday. The National Weather Service has issued alerts for strong thunderstorms capable of producing pea-sized hail and wind gusts that could reach up to 55 miles per hour.

For Boardman’s vital farming sector, the forecast of hail is a significant concern. While pea-sized hail is relatively small, it can still cause damage to sensitive crops and young plants in the fields surrounding our community. Farmers are advised to monitor conditions closely as the storms develop.

The high wind warning also poses logistical challenges for the area’s industrial and transportation businesses. Operations at the Port of Morrow and along major trucking routes like I-84 may experience delays. Companies with outdoor storage or light infrastructure are securing loose materials to prevent wind-blown debris.

“We’re telling our staff and customers to be weather-aware,” said a manager at a local equipment dealership. “Sudden gusts like that can make driving hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles, and nobody wants an unexpected dent from hail.”

Beyond immediate safety, the storms highlight the broader economic impact of weather on Morrow County. Power outages could disrupt operations, and the rapid onset of heavy rain could affect outdoor work schedules. Local businesses are encouraged to review emergency plans and ensure communication lines are open as this fast-moving system approaches the Boardman area.