Thunderstorms could impact Father's Day plans in the Pacific Northwest

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Late spring thunderstorms could impact outdoor Father's Day plans this weekend in the Pacific Northwest.

The official start to the summer season is now less than a week away. Drier, warmer and sunnier skies are typically associated with the summer solstice, but spring storms could potentially stand in the way.

Father's Day stands in the timeline of this late-season storm chance. Saturday's chance for isolated thunderstorms is higher than Sunday's. Western and northern Washington has the best chance to see isolated thunderstorms. Small hail, gusty winds and heavy rain at times are possible and could potentially go as far south as Portland. Regardless, if Portland doesn't see thunderstorms, rain is likely for the greater Portland-Vancouver metro area on Saturday.

Outdoor activities planned for Saturday should be prepared for wet weather. Seeking shelter is a must if thunder is heard or lightning is seen in the region Saturday. Slightly drier conditions are possible for Sunday around the Pacific Northwest, but a few showers will remain.

Rain accumulation will be near a couple of one-hundredths of an inch to a quarter along the Willamette Valley through Sunday afternoon. The wet weather trend will help to decrease the pollen count and cool temperatures into the mid to upper 60s through the weekend. Drier, warmer and sunnier weather returns by the middle of next week.