State College, PA – Thunderstorms could impact travel and outdoor plans Thursday afternoon in State College and across central Pennsylvania, with rain and lightning expected through the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms begins after 2 p.m. Thursday. Rainfall amounts will generally be light, but isolated downpours and gusty winds are possible in thunderstorms. The storm risk is expected to taper off before midnight, with skies clearing overnight.
Cities across Centre County, including Bellefonte and Boalsburg, may see brief but intense rainfall that could lead to ponding on roads, especially during the late-day commute. Winds will shift west to northwest at 5 to 8 mph during the day, helping push storms eastward by nightfall.
Drivers are urged to use caution during afternoon travel and to avoid outdoor activities if thunder is heard nearby. Thursday’s high will reach 85°F before cooling to the upper 50s by early Friday.
The good news: Clear skies return just in time for Independence Day. Friday and Saturday will be sunny with highs in the mid-80s, offering a calm stretch for holiday celebrations.
🌤 Five-Day Forecast for State College, PA:
- Thursday: Chance of storms after 2 p.m.; high 85°F
- Friday (Independence Day): Sunny, high 83°F
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 86°F
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 89°F
- Monday: 40% chance of storms, high near 90°F
