Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Strong thunderstorms may disrupt commutes and outdoor plans across southeastern Pennsylvania Wednesday afternoon as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 7 p.m. EDT, covering major population centers from York to Philadelphia.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes Adams, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery, Philadelphia, and York counties. Hazards include damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, frequent lightning, and localized flash flooding.
Drivers on I-76, I-95, and Route 30 should stay alert for sudden downpours and limited visibility. Outdoor events, especially in Montgomery County and the Philadelphia metro, could see lightning delays or cancellations. Power outages are possible if trees or limbs fall due to gusty winds.
Residents are advised to charge phones, secure outdoor furniture, and avoid unnecessary travel during active storms. While this line of storms isn’t expected to produce widespread tornadoes, isolated severe cells can’t be ruled out through the evening.
Thunderstorm activity is expected to taper off after sunset, but residual showers and minor flooding could linger into Thursday morning. Additional watches may be issued if the storm line intensifies or shifts eastward.
