Pittsburgh, PA – Residents across western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia should prepare for potential flash flooding as heavy rainfall moves into the region Tuesday. The threat extends from the Pittsburgh metro area to cities like Wheeling and Steubenville, with excessive runoff possible in vulnerable, low-lying areas.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch is in effect from 11 a.m. this morning through Tuesday evening. Forecasters warn that repeated showers and thunderstorms could produce rainfall rates exceeding one inch per hour, overwhelming already saturated ground and high streams.
The watch covers a wide area, including Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, and Westmoreland counties in Pennsylvania; Belmont, Jefferson, and Columbiana counties in Ohio; and Hancock, Brooke, and Ohio counties in West Virginia. Urban and poor drainage areas are particularly susceptible to flooding, which could lead to impassable roads and clogged storm drains.
Officials advise residents to clear debris from ditches and drains and to have a plan to move to higher ground. Motorists should never drive through flooded roadways.
Area creeks and streams are already running high from recent precipitation. Stay tuned for later updates, as Flash Flood Warnings may be issued throughout the day.
