Hagerstown, Maryland – Severe storms capable of producing a brief tornado are expected to develop along the Maryland-Pennsylvania border by Sunday evening, creating an urgent risk for travelers and residents along the I-70 corridor.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a level 3 of 5 severe risk extends into south-central Pennsylvania and western Maryland through Sunday night. Storms are expected to intensify after 5 p.m., with the highest tornado potential between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. as isolated cells form ahead of a stronger line moving in from the west.
Communities including Hagerstown, Frederick, Chambersburg, and Gettysburg sit in the zone where rotating storms may develop. Wind gusts between 55 and 70 mph could down trees and power lines along I-70 and I-81, with isolated gusts nearing 75 mph. Large hail up to 2 inches in diameter may damage vehicles, roofs, and windows in stronger storms.
Residents should secure outdoor items immediately, charge devices, and be ready to move to an interior room on short notice if warnings are issued. Avoid travel during the evening hours as heavy rain could reduce visibility to less than a half mile.
Storms will continue pushing east overnight toward central Maryland and southeastern Pennsylvania, with additional warnings likely as conditions evolve through Sunday night.
