The National Weather Service issued a weather alert at 4:28 p.m. on Friday for strong thunderstorms until 5 p.m. for Southern Blue Mountains of Oregon and John Day Basin.

The storms may bring wind gusts of up to 40 mph and marble-sized hail (0.5 inches).

"At 4:28 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 13 miles northwest of Ritter, or 24 miles southeast of Heppner. This thunderstorm was nearly stationary," says the weather service. "Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible."

The weather service comments, "If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and poss

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