Severe thunderstorms threaten Pittsburgh with heavy rain and flash floods
- Air quality issues persist in Western Pennsylvania due to Canadian wildfire smoke, impacting outdoor activities.
- A low-pressure system is expected to bring heavy rain and risks of flash flooding in several counties, including Washington and Westmoreland.
- Residents are advised to prepare for severe storms with the potential for damaging winds and flooding risks.
In the United States, particularly in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, residents faced hazardous air quality due to the arrival of Canadian wildfire smoke, which has caused health concerns. This poor air quality was designated as Code Orange or Code Red, indicating that it was unhealthy for most individuals. As forecasters predicted rain and thunderstorms, there was anticipation for a shift in weather conditions starting Sunday afternoon, alleviating some of the smoke in the region. The incoming weather system, associated with a low-pressure area, was tracked to move eastward from the Midwest and into Western Pennsylvania. The areas primarily affected were situated along and south of the low-pressure track, with specific counties like Washington, Westmoreland, Fayette, Greene, Monongalia, and Preston expected to experience significant rainfall ranging from 1 to 3 inches. The elevated atmospheric moisture combined with the terrain's upslope flow created ideal conditions for localized flash flooding, prompting a Flash Flood Watch until 10 p.m. on Sunday. As Pittsburgh braced for the stormy weather, meteorologists indicated there was a slight risk of severe storms, rated at level 1 out of 5, with possible damaging winds, hail, and even tornadoes. The evening storms were to begin late Sunday, and all residents were urged to be cautious of potential flooding, which poses a considerable human safety risk. The storm system was expected to bring varied weather across the region, transitioning into a dry stretch on Tuesday with temperatures reaching into the mid-70s. Looking ahead, another round of severe weather was forecasted for Monday afternoon into the evening, with active storm development anticipated after 5 p.m. Residents were advised to remain alert, as further severe weather events could result in additional rainfall and localized flooding. The forecast underscored the importance of preparation and awareness amid these unpredictable and severe weather conditions, particularly in how they could affect daily life in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.