Bradford County, Pa. – Drivers across northern Pennsylvania could encounter sudden road hazards and downed trees before sunset as severe thunderstorms intensify through 9 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 79 includes Bradford, Tioga, Potter, McKean, Warren, and Susquehanna counties, where wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail near 1 inch may develop through the evening.
Communities along Route 6 and U.S. 15 face the highest risk for reduced visibility and debris-covered roads between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. In rural and forested areas, saturated ground combined with strong wind could snap trees and trigger scattered outages. Emergency managers warn that lightning frequency may increase rapidly as storm cells strengthen.
Residents should avoid non-essential travel during peak storm timing, secure loose outdoor items, and keep mobile devices charged in case of outages. Parking away from trees and preparing backup lighting can reduce risk if power is lost.
The strongest storms should exit by 9 p.m., though isolated cells could linger into the late evening. Additional warnings may be issued if conditions intensify.
