Philadelphia, PA – Rounds of thunderstorms and locally heavy rain could soak parts of the Mid-Atlantic early this week, creating a risk of isolated flash or urban flooding through Wednesday night.
According to the National Weather Service Middle Atlantic River Forecast Center, total rainfall over the 72-hour period ending at 8 a.m. Thursday is generally expected to range from 0.25 inch to more than 1 inch. Locally higher totals are possible where heavier thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same areas.
The forecast covers a broad section of the Mid-Atlantic, including portions of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.
While widespread river flooding is not expected at this time, forecasters cautioned that locally heavy rainfall could still overwhelm drainage systems and cause isolated flash or urban flooding.
That means drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions during heavier downpours. Water can collect quickly on low-lying streets, underpasses and other areas with poor drainage, potentially slowing the morning or evening commute.
The National Weather Service’s 72-hour precipitation map shows some of the higher projected rainfall totals extending through parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and surrounding areas.
Despite the repeated rounds of rain, current river forecasts remain below flood thresholds. The agency said river flooding is not expected based on the latest projections Monday.
Residents traveling across the Mid-Atlantic early this week should monitor local forecasts because thunderstorm timing and rainfall totals can vary considerably by location.
