Severe Storms Erupt Across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley

Rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms will be expected across parts of the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley today into tonight. 

A vigorous disturbance will track into the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley today and tonight bringing with it scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms. Some of the thunderstorms will have the potential to produce heavy downpours, damaging wind gusts up to 50-60 mph, hail and even a couple of tornadoes.

The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued an Enhanced Risk (level 3 out of 5) for parts of southern Ohio, northeastern Kentucky, West Virginia, much of Pennsylvania, northern Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey. Cities under this risk include Columbus, Ohio, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, Wilmington, Del. and Atlantic City, N.J.

A Slight Risk (level 2 out of 5) encompasses the Enhanced Risk and has been issued for parts of New York, far northern Pennsylvania, western Connecticut, northern and western Ohio, southern Virginia, northern North Carolina, northern Tennessee, Kentucky, southern Indiana, far southern Illinois, far southeastern Missouri and far northeastern Arkansas. Cities under this risk include New York City and Buffalo, N.Y., Richmond, Va., Raleigh, N.C. Nashville, Tenn., Louisville, Ky. and Columbus, Ohio. 

Flood Watches are in effect across northern Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, northern and central New Jersey and across the New York City area for heavy rainfall. Rain amounts of 1 to 2 inches will be common, with some locally higher amounts up to 3 to 4 inches. Remember when a roadway is flooded, "Turn Around, Don't Drown!".

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they be issued. A "watch" means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur, and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A "warning" means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"