Severe Storms Cause Damage Across Multiple States

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – Severe storms are impacting areas across the Midwest, causing significant damage and power outages. The First Alert Weather team warns that storms will likely worsen this evening, with the most severe activity expected after 4 PM.

Omaha, Neb. is currently under a First Alert Weather Day, where storms are anticipated to start as scattered but will expand in intensity tonight. Wind gusts exceeding 60 mph pose the greatest threat, with potential for large hail and a brief tornado, although the latter is considered less likely.

As temperatures cool from the 80s to the 70s and 60s tonight, storm chances are expected to continue overnight. Rain and storms could also persist into Tuesday morning but are predicted to ease by the afternoon.

Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, tornado warnings were issued for Chester and Delaware counties during Thursday’s storms. Although these warnings were canceled by early evening, the storms caused widespread tree damage and power outages, particularly in Montgomery County, where over 15,000 residents are still without electricity.

Officials report receiving nearly 5,000 9-1-1 calls between Thursday evening and early Friday morning, a stark increase from the typical call volume. In neighboring Delaware County, nearly 17,000 customers remain without power. Areas in Bucks County and Chester County also reported thousands without electricity.

Residents described the storms as “scary” as many experienced property damage and power loss. Emergency centers in affected areas are open to provide relief and device charging for residents.

In Marquette, Mich., more severe weather is expected ahead of a cold front impacting the Central and Eastern U.P. Rainfall is forecasted to be between half an inch and an inch. Highs today are approaching 90°F, but a drop in temperature is expected late this afternoon followed by more typical seasonal weather patterns for the rest of the week.

The National Weather Service continues to closely monitor conditions as the situation develops.