State College, PA – Thunderstorms are expected to return across central Pennsylvania on Thursday, July 17, with rainfall and lightning potentially disrupting afternoon travel and outdoor plans. Residents in State College and surrounding Centre County should prepare for localized downpours and the risk of slippery conditions, especially on I-99 and U.S. Route 322 during the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service, rain and storms are likely after 2 p.m. Thursday, with gusty winds and isolated lightning possible. Skies will stay mostly cloudy, and daytime highs will hover around 86°F, keeping humidity high. Rain chances remain elevated through Thursday night before a brief break Friday morning.
Friday brings partly sunny skies and a high near 83°F, but the wet weather returns again Saturday afternoon. A mix of clouds and sun will give way to another round of afternoon thunderstorms Saturday and Sunday, with temperatures climbing to near 90°F by Sunday. Rainfall may be heavy at times, with 50% chances of storms both days.
The early part of next week remains unsettled. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected Monday and Tuesday, with daytime highs in the low to mid-80s. Residents should stay weather-aware and limit outdoor activities during peak storm hours, typically mid to late afternoon.
⚠️ Storms could delay travel and outdoor events through the weekend. More updates are expected if watches or warnings are issued.
📆 Five-Day Forecast: State College, PA | Thursday, July 17 – Tuesday, July 22
- Thursday: High 86°F — Showers likely after 2 p.m. Chance of rain: 60%
- Friday: High 83°F — Slight chance of afternoon showers. Partly sunny
- Saturday: High 87°F — Scattered afternoon storms. Chance of rain: 50%
- Sunday: High 89°F — More storms likely in the afternoon. Chance of rain: 60%
- Monday: High 81°F — Scattered showers. Partly sunny. Chance of rain: 30%
- Tuesday: High 82°F — Storms possible. Partly sunny. Chance of rain: 50%
