Binghamton, N.Y. – Residents across central New York and northeast Pennsylvania should prepare for a potentially significant severe weather outbreak Saturday as forecasters warn that damaging winds, large hail and isolated tornadoes are all possible. The greatest threat is expected from late Saturday afternoon through the evening, when the atmosphere will be most favorable for severe thunderstorms.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton and the Storm Prediction Center, much of the region is under a Level 3 of 5 (Enhanced Risk) for severe thunderstorms. Confidence is highest that damaging straight-line winds will be the primary hazard, with a 45% probability of severe wind reports within 25 miles of many locations across the region. Isolated large hail and a few tornadoes are also possible.
Forecast guidance indicates storm intensity will rapidly increase during the afternoon, with severe weather probabilities climbing after 3 p.m. and remaining elevated through about 9 p.m. before gradually diminishing later in the evening.
Communities including Binghamton, Syracuse, Ithaca, Elmira, Norwich, Oneonta, Bath, Towanda, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Utica and Monticello should closely monitor changing weather conditions. Stronger storms could produce wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, torrential rainfall capable of causing localized flooding, frequent lightning and isolated tornadoes.
Residents are urged to review severe weather safety plans now, secure loose outdoor objects and ensure multiple methods are available to receive watches and warnings. Those with outdoor plans Saturday should be prepared to seek sturdy shelter quickly if warnings are issued. The National Weather Service says additional watches and warnings are likely as storms begin developing Saturday afternoon.
