The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning just after 3:20 pm ET for portions of south-central Pennsylvania, including Dauphin, Lebanon, Perry, northeastern Cumberland, northwestern York, and southwestern Schuylkill Counties. The warning remains in effect until 4 pm ET.
Radar showed storms stretching from Tower City to Ickesburg, moving southeast at 35 mph, packing 60 mph wind gusts and penny-sized hail, strong enough to damage rooftops, trees, and power lines. Several highways including the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Interstates 78, 81, 83, and 283 are also under alert due to hazardous driving conditions.
“Move indoors immediately,” the warning urged. “If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.” The NWS emphasized that cloud-to-ground lightning is frequent in this storm system.
Heat and humidity add to instability
These storms come on the heels of an oppressive heat wave gripping much of the region. The NWS also issued a Heat Advisory for multiple counties in Pennsylvania through 8 pm. Friday, with feels-like temperatures soaring past 100°F. That hot, humid air has created an unstable atmosphere ideal for violent storms.
Farther east, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in place for New Jersey, Delaware, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island until 9 pm ET. In Morris County, New Jersey, a warning was issued until 3:45 pm for cities including Morristown, Dover, and Madison, as storms continue to track eastward.
“It’s all happening fast,” said Raul Martinez, a truck driver caught along I‑81. “One minute I’m in the sun, the next I’m dodging fallen branches in the wind.”
Emergency services are urging residents to avoid flooded roads, as heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding in low-lying areas. The NWS warned, “Turn around, don’t drown.”
Residents are advised to monitor local alerts, keep phones charged, and seek shelter at the first sign of thunder or lightning. Severe weather could continue through the evening hours.
