State College, Pa. – Central Pennsylvania could wake to heavy rain and thunderstorms Thursday, creating dangerous travel conditions on major routes including I-99 and US-322. Drivers and morning commuters should prepare for delays as storms build in strength through the day.
According to the National Weather Service, showers will develop early Thursday, followed by thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Winds could gust up to 20 mph, and rainfall totals may reach up to a quarter inch, with locally higher amounts in storms. Power outages and ponding on roads remain possible during heavier downpours.
In State College, the strongest storms are expected late Thursday evening into the overnight hours. Residents should charge devices, secure outdoor items, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm times. PennDOT warns that wet leaves could add to slick road conditions on secondary roads, creating hazards for drivers.
Friday brings a break in the weather, with mostly sunny skies and highs near 80 degrees. However, another round of showers may arrive Saturday, potentially affecting early fall outdoor events and football games across the region. Temperatures will dip into the mid-40s overnight Saturday, bringing a taste of crisp fall air by Sunday morning.
The unsettled pattern continues into early next week, though Sunday and Tuesday both look dry and seasonably mild. Residents should monitor updates as additional advisories remain possible if storms redevelop.
Five-Day Forecast for State College, Pa.
- Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms, high near 79. Low 56. Winds up to 20 mph.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 80. Low 60. Slight chance of evening thunderstorms.
- Saturday: Chance of showers, high 74. Low 48.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 70. Low 45.
- Monday: Partly cloudy, high 72. Low 40.
