Pittsburgh, Pa. – A smoky haze is hanging over western Pennsylvania late this morning, but the biggest weather story is still developing. Darker skies and stronger storms are expected later today, bringing the potential for damaging wind, torrential rain and rapidly changing travel conditions across the Pittsburgh metro.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, the atmosphere will become increasingly unstable this afternoon as a passing cold front approaches. Forecasters expect showers and thunderstorms to become more numerous after midday, with an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather north of Interstate 70 and a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) farther south. The greatest threat is expected between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m., when damaging wind gusts could accompany the strongest storms.
Heavy rainfall is also a concern. The National Weather Service says 1 to 2 inches of rain may fall in localized areas, creating a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 4) for flash flooding. Urban streets, poor-drainage locations and smaller streams could see quick rises if repeated thunderstorms track across the same area. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, although damaging straight-line winds remain the primary severe weather threat.
Air quality is another issue today. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has issued a Code Red Air Quality Alert through midnight for portions of western Pennsylvania, including Allegheny County. Pollution levels may become unhealthy for everyone, and residents should consider limiting strenuous outdoor activity.
Travel conditions could deteriorate rapidly on Interstate 79, Interstate 376, Interstate 279 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike as thunderstorms move through. Drivers should slow down during heavy rain, watch for ponding water and remain alert for strong wind gusts capable of bringing down tree limbs.
Behind the front, Sunday turns much quieter with mostly sunny skies and a high near 82 degrees. Monday remains dry and warmer with sunshine and highs near 85 degrees before another storm system increases shower and thunderstorm chances on Tuesday.
Looking ahead, the Climate Prediction Center favors above-normal temperatures across the Upper Ohio Valley during the 6-to-10-day outlook, keeping warm summer weather in place despite periodic storm systems.
Stay weather-aware this afternoon and evening, and make sure you have a reliable way to receive severe weather warnings. Are you already seeing smoky skies, or are storm clouds beginning to build where you are?
Five-Day Forecast for Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Sunday: Mostly sunny with a high near 82°F.
- Monday: Sunny and warmer with a high near 85°F.
- Tuesday: Showers likely, then thunderstorms during the afternoon. High near 85°F. 80% chance of rain.
- Wednesday: Chance of showers early, then scattered afternoon thunderstorms. High near 79°F. 30% chance of rain.
- Thursday: Sunny with a high near 80°F. Above-normal temperatures are favored across the region into late next week.
