Philadelphia, PA – Thunderstorms packing tropical-level rain could flood roads, streams, and low-lying areas across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware starting Thursday afternoon, as a powerful cold front collides with steamy summer air.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, a Flood Watch is in effect from 2 p.m. Thursday through 6 a.m. Friday, covering metro Philadelphia, South and Central Jersey, northern Delaware, and parts of eastern Pennsylvania. Forecasters warn of 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated pockets exceeding 6 inches, falling in just a few hours.
Urban areas like Philadelphia, Camden, Trenton, and Wilmington face the greatest risk of street flooding and overwhelmed storm drains. Smaller creeks and streams may rise rapidly. Rainfall rates could surpass 2 inches per hour, potentially leading to flash flooding during the evening commute.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, clear drains, and avoid driving through flooded roadways, especially after dark. Emergency services may issue Flash Flood Warnings if the situation worsens.
The threat should subside early Friday morning as the front exits the region, but additional watches or warnings remain possible overnight.
