Wild Wednesday of weather, thunderstorms and fires possible in PNW

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- The wildfire threat remains elevated across eastern Oregon on Wednesday as severe thunderstorms increase the fire threat.

A marginal risk for severe weather is likely for eastern Oregon on Wednesday afternoon. A weak disturbance will drop temperatures around Portland, but will increase the thunderstorm and fire threat in eastern Oregon.

Severe weather could include damaging winds, large hail and flash flooding, all while visibility is reduced by wildfire smoke. Gusty winds could make current fire movement erratic and unpredictable. Lightning could start and spread new wildfires in unburned locations.

Slightly cooler temperatures are expected across the Pacific Northwest Thursday. The cooler temperatures will help decrease the threat of wildfires briefly, but tender brush remains.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as the threat of wildfire season continues to ramp up this summer.