An updated report was issued from the National Weather Service on Saturday at 4:16 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 4:45 p.m. for Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon and Foothills of the Northern Blue Mountains of Oregon.

Expect marble-sized hail (0.5 inches) and wind gusts of up to 50 mph.

"At 4:15 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near Stanfield, or 7 miles east of Hermiston, moving east at 25 mph," according to the weather service. "Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible."

The alert is for Holdman, Stanfield and Hermiston.

The weather service adds, "If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building."

When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Stay toward the middle lanes - water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.