Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Residents in portions of Jefferson County should be in shelter immediately after a tornado was reported on the ground Sunday evening and moving toward the Sykesville area.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, a tornado was confirmed on the ground north of Punxsutawney and tracking east-northeast toward Sykesville. Meteorologists urged residents south of Reynoldsville and in the Sykesville area to take cover immediately.
Radar imagery showed a dangerous storm moving through central Jefferson County with a well-defined circulation. The storm was located near Route 310 and progressing toward Sykesville, placing communities along its path at immediate risk for tornado damage.
Residents in Sykesville, Reynoldsville, Big Run and nearby rural areas should move to the lowest floor of a sturdy building immediately. Stay away from windows and place as many walls as possible between yourself and the outside. Mobile homes, vehicles and temporary structures are not safe during a tornado.
The storm is capable of producing destructive winds, falling trees, power outages and damage to homes and businesses. Travel should be avoided in the warned area as conditions can deteriorate rapidly with little notice.
Anyone outdoors should seek shelter immediately. If no substantial building is available, move to a low-lying area and protect your head from flying debris.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. Additional Tornado Warnings may be issued as the storm continues across Jefferson County. Residents should monitor NOAA Weather Radio, local media outlets and official National Weather Service updates for the latest information.
