State College, Pennsylvania – Heavy rain moving into central Pennsylvania this afternoon could trigger rapid river rises and ice jam flooding before Friday’s commute.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, a Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday afternoon for Cambria, Blair, Huntingdon, Somerset, Bedford and Fulton counties. Forecasters expect 1 to 1.5 inches of rain between this afternoon and early Friday, with embedded thunderstorms adding bursts of heavier rainfall. That rain, combined with ongoing snowmelt and significant river ice breakup, increases the threat of ice jams.
Communities including Altoona, Johnstown, Huntingdon, Somerset and Bedford sit near waterways already experiencing rising flows. When ice chunks collect and block narrow sections of river, water can surge upstream quickly, flooding low-lying roads, basements and rural access routes. Conditions can shift within minutes if an ice jam forms or suddenly releases.
Emergency officials urge residents in flood-prone areas to monitor stream levels closely and prepare to move to higher ground if warnings are issued. Avoid driving across water-covered roads and keep mobile devices charged in case power disruptions occur.
Additional Flood Warnings may be issued at any time through Friday afternoon as rain and ice movement continue.
