Pennsylvania – Darkening clouds and humid air are already building across western Pennsylvania this morning. Thunderstorms will sweep into the Pittsburgh region today, bringing damaging wind gusts and heavy rain before colder air arrives later this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, several rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected through the afternoon and evening. Forecasters say the strongest storms may produce wind gusts above 30 mph and brief heavy rainfall.
Temperatures surge into the upper 70s during the warm sector ahead of the approaching cold front. That warm air fuels instability across western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia.
Meteorologists say damaging winds remain the primary threat today. However, a few isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out near stronger storm cells.
Drivers across the Pittsburgh metro should prepare for sudden downpours and reduced visibility. Travel along I-376, I-79, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike could slow quickly during heavier storms.
Plan extra time during the afternoon commute and avoid flooded roadways if rainfall intensifies.
Conditions begin improving after the front passes, but cooler air quickly replaces the spring warmth. Temperatures drop sharply by Thursday as winds turn brisk from the northwest.
Friday brings another weather shift. Breezy conditions return with highs near 56°F and a slight chance of rain mixing with wet snowflakes during colder periods.
No accumulation is expected, but wet pavement combined with chilly air can create slick spots on bridges and overpasses.
Sunshine returns Saturday with temperatures near 49°F before another rain system develops late Sunday into Monday.
Longer-range outlooks suggest warmer spring temperatures may return to western Pennsylvania next week as the season edges closer to the March 20 start of spring.
Are storms already developing in your neighborhood around Pittsburgh today? Let us know what conditions look like where you live.
Five Day Forecast for Pittsburgh, PA
Thursday: Clouds early, then gradual clearing. High 45°F.
Friday: Breezy with slight rain or snow chance. High 56°F.
Saturday: Partly sunny. High 49°F.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy and milder. High 67°F.
Monday: Rain likely with breezy conditions. High 47°F.
