After the storm, document then repair

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Portland storms do their roof damage two ways. The east wind pouring out of the Columbia Gorge gets under shingle edges and peels them, hardest in Troutdale, Fairview, and the east county towns. Everywhere else, the trees do the work: saturated soil plus a gusty night drops fir limbs and whole trees onto roofs.

What counts as storm damage?

Missing or creased shingles, ridge caps on the lawn, flashing bent back, punctures and scrapes from limbs, gutters torn or pulled off the fascia, and granule bruising where hail or debris hit. Some of it is invisible from the ground, which is why "the roof looks fine from here" is not a verdict.

How does the insurance side work?

Your policy, your claim. Photograph everything before anything moves: the debris, the damage, the ceiling inside. Report it to your insurer promptly, and expect the roofer's written assessment to be part of what the adjuster looks at. A roofer can document and estimate; the claim decision stays between you and the carrier.

Does every storm hit mean a new roof?

No, and be suspicious of anyone who says otherwise before climbing up. Isolated wind damage repairs cleanly on a roof with life left. Widespread creasing and bruising across every slope is a different verdict. The inspection is what separates the two, and the answer should come with photos, not pressure.

What if it is still raining?

Tarping and temporary weatherproofing run in any weather; permanent repairs wait for a dry-enough window. Stopping the water now and fixing it right later is the normal order, not a delay tactic.