Allentown, Pa. – Strong thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds and large hail are expected to sweep through eastern and central Pennsylvania Thursday afternoon and evening, putting 20 counties under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 10 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes parts of the Lehigh Valley, Poconos, and Susquehanna Valley — covering Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Lackawanna, and Luzerne counties, among others. Winds could reach up to 60 mph, with isolated hail and heavy rainfall potentially causing flash flooding and scattered power outages.
Drivers on I-81, I-80, and Route 33 should stay alert for reduced visibility and sudden wind gusts through the evening commute. Outdoor events and Fourth of July preparations may be impacted, especially in areas like Allentown, Scranton, and Wilkes-Barre.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, charge mobile devices, and stay indoors once warnings are issued. These storms may develop quickly and intensify within the watch area.
The Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains active until 10 p.m. Additional warnings could be issued with little notice as storms track northeast through the state.
