Binghamton, N.Y. –Strong storms could rattle parts of central New York and northeast Pennsylvania Thursday evening as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for 13 counties through 10 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, Watch 484 includes Broome, Tioga, Otsego, and Delaware counties in New York, as well as Luzerne, Lackawanna, and Pike counties in Pennsylvania. Cities such as Binghamton, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and Monticello are in the threat zone for damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, hail, and frequent lightning.
Travelers on I-81, I-88, and Route 6 should monitor conditions closely, as sudden downpours could reduce visibility and spark flash flooding. Outdoor holiday plans may need to be adjusted, especially in areas already saturated by recent rain.
Residents are urged to charge phones, secure loose objects, and avoid outdoor activities until storms pass. While tornadoes are not the primary threat, isolated rotation can’t be ruled out with stronger cells.
This is the first widespread severe weather alert in the region since early June. More alerts could follow depending on how storms develop west of the Finger Lakes.
