Pennsylvania – Tuesday is shaping up to be one of the most active weather days of the week across western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia as a strengthening cold front sets the stage for potentially significant severe thunderstorms by the afternoon commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh and the Storm Prediction Center, an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) covers much of the Pittsburgh metro, Morgantown, and surrounding communities. The highest threat is expected from noon until 8 p.m. Tuesday, when thunderstorms may rapidly intensify.
Forecasters say the strongest storms could produce damaging wind gusts exceeding 75 mph, hail up to 2 inches in diameter, isolated tornadoes, frequent lightning, and torrential rainfall. Any storm that repeatedly tracks over the same area could quickly trigger localized flash flooding.
The flood threat is also increasing across areas south of Interstate 80, where the Weather Prediction Center highlights a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 4) for excessive rainfall. The National Weather Service says training thunderstorms may prompt the issuance of Flash Flood Watches if confidence continues to increase.
Travelers on I-79, I-70, I-76, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and I-376 through Pittsburgh should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, including poor visibility, ponding on roadways, and isolated tree damage during the afternoon and evening.
Residents across Pittsburgh, Butler, Washington, Beaver, Uniontown, New Philadelphia, Wheeling, Morgantown, and nearby communities should review severe weather plans now, secure loose outdoor items, and ensure multiple ways to receive warnings before storms develop.
