Philadelphia, Pa. – Thunderstorms packing damaging winds, large hail, and frequent lightning are expected to sweep across much of eastern and central Pennsylvania through 9 p.m. Friday, threatening roads, power lines, and outdoor plans across 29 counties, including Philadelphia, Berks, and Lancaster.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. EDT for a wide area from Bucks and Montgomery counties in the southeast to Luzerne, Lackawanna, and Wayne counties in the northeast. The watch covers major population centers and travel corridors, including I-76, I-78, and I-81.
Cities like Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg, and Reading may see storms intensify through rush hour, with wind gusts topping 60 mph and the risk of hail up to quarter size. Flash flooding is possible in areas with heavy downpours. Power outages and downed trees may disrupt local travel, especially on rural and suburban roads.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather, and monitor alerts from local agencies. If you hear thunder, move indoors and stay away from windows. Emergency crews across the region are on standby for downed wires and flash flooding.
The threat will linger through the evening, with additional warnings possible as storms track east. Stay tuned to official alerts; the Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for all listed counties until 9 p.m. Friday.
