Severe Storms Threaten Philadelphia, Millions in East Coast
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Severe thunderstorms are expected to impact the Philadelphia region early Friday morning, bringing heavy rain and wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph. This weather system follows a day of calm and sunny conditions.
The National Weather Service issued severe thunderstorm warnings earlier, which have since expired. Many areas experienced hail and localized flooding as fast-moving storms swept through the region. ‘Isolated strong to severe storms can deliver damaging winds along with heavy rainfall,’ said meteorologist Katie Byrne.
As these storms pass, the weather will transition to a drier pattern, although another weather system is anticipated over the weekend, contributing to daily chances of showers. Friday’s temperatures will peak at around 67 degrees, but will decline to the mid-50s by Saturday before rising to the low 70s on Sunday.
Following this weekend, a significant cold front is expected to bring a notable temperature drop by next week. ‘Wednesday morning could be particularly cold with temperatures dropping into the 20s and 30s, and wind chills might feel like the teens,’ added Byrne.
Forecast details for the upcoming days include:
– **Friday:** Morning rain with a high of 67 and a low of 60.
– **Saturday:** Overcast with showers, high of 56 and low of 52.
– **Sunday:** Afternoon showers expected, high of 72 and low of 49.
– **Monday:** Morning rain followed by some sun; high of 49, low of 42.
– **Tuesday:** Colder and windy with temperatures reaching a high of 48 and a low of 41.
– **Wednesday:** Chilly conditions with a high of 50 and a low of 32.
– **Thursday:** Cold start with a high of 57 and a low of 33.
Areas to the south of Philadelphia are also under threat from severe weather. On Monday, heavy storms caused destruction across parts of the Eastern United States, impacting over 86 million people from the Carolinas to New York City. Early reports indicated tornadoes were confirmed in different states, including an EF-1 tornado in Fairdale, Kentucky.
In Alabama, storms damaged the Dothan Preparatory School, where authorities reported injuries but ensured students were safe. Dothan police stated, ‘Injuries are being addressed by Dothan Fire. Please wait to get children due to debris in the roads.’
The National Weather Service advised residents to remain cautious as they monitor evolving weather conditions. Many regions are experiencing power outages, including nearly 30,000 customers in central Georgia due to the severe storms.
