Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Another round of rain will move across western Pennsylvania this afternoon and evening, with scattered thunderstorms developing across the region as instability increases ahead of a passing disturbance. The greatest chances for thunder—along with a low-end potential for small hail—will occur across eastern Ohio and northern West Virginia, though storms remain possible throughout the Pittsburgh metro.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, thunder chances rise after 5 p.m. and peak through midnight, with pockets of elevated convection capable of producing brief bursts of heavier rain and isolated pea-size hail. While widespread severe weather is not expected, any stronger cell may produce a burst of small hail, especially west of I-79 and along the U.S. 22 corridor stretching into Ohio.
Travelers along I-376, I-279, and U.S. 30 should prepare for periods of reduced visibility and ponding in areas where heavier showers pass. The combination of warm surface temperatures and cool air aloft may allow thunderstorms to deepen quickly, producing rumbles of thunder even in areas with lower storm coverage.
Communities including Cranberry Township, Washington, Butler, Beaver Falls and Wheeling should remain alert to rapidly shifting conditions through the evening hours. Rain will taper overnight, though scattered showers may linger into early Friday morning before drier air briefly settles in.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency officials, especially those traveling west toward Youngstown and Steubenville where storm probabilities run highest.
Additional statements may be issued if stronger convection develops or if hail coverage expands beyond current expectations.
