Rogue Valley thunderstorms cause widespread power outages

Severe thunderstorms have moved through Oregon's Rogue Valley, causing widespread power outages and hazardous weather conditions. As of Wednesday evening, more than 15,000 customers were without electricity.

The National Weather Service issued warnings for central Jackson County, including Medford, Central Point, Jacksonville, and White City, noting the potential for wind gusts up to 60 mph and quarter-size hail. Unofficial reports in northeast Medford recorded sustained winds of 32 mph with gusts reaching 42 mph.

Low pressure over the state is pulling monsoonal moisture northward, maintaining a high probability of rain and thunderstorms through the region. While rainfall amounts vary, the eastern highlands may see up to half an inch of rain. Pacific Power estimated that power restoration could begin by Thursday morning, depending on the extent of the damage.