Severe storms have hit Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, causing the region to receive its entire average rainfall for April in just the first two days of the month. The storms have also affected several other states, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Weather warnings have been issued for a variety of conditions, such as floods, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and damaging wind, with the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center warning of potential large hail and severe storms.
The storms began on April 1 and are expected to continue through April 2, leading to the potential for heavy rainfall and flooding in Pittsburgh. The National Weather Service has reported that significant amounts of rain have already fallen in the area, with more expected in the coming days. There is a concern for urban and small stream flooding, as well as rises in creeks and streams due to the saturated soils. NWS meteorologists have stated that the excessive rain is not uncommon for this time of year, but precautions should still be taken.
Rainfall amounts in Pittsburgh have varied from half an inch to 1.5 inches over the past 12 hours, with additional precipitation expected in the following days. The NWS office in Pittsburgh has been providing updates on the storm and advising residents to remain weather aware. There is a continued threat of tornadoes, hail, and damaging wind in the region, particularly affecting Ohio. Power outages have also been reported, primarily in Indiana and Illinois. Further northeast, heavy snow and gusty winds are expected to impact five states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York.
Despite the severe weather conditions, authorities are working to provide updates and warnings to keep residents safe and prepared. It is essential for people in the affected areas to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent any potential harm. The storms are a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the importance of being prepared for extreme conditions. As the storms continue to impact the region, continued monitoring and communication from meteorologists will be crucial in ensuring the safety of those in the affected areas.
