Heavy Rainfall Could Trigger Flooding Around Pittsburgh

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A surge of thunderstorms is expected to bring 1 to 1.4 inches of rainfall across western Pennsylvania and the Upper Ohio Valley through early Thursday, potentially causing minor flooding in low-lying or poor drainage areas. The National Weather Service has highlighted a marginal excessive rainfall risk, meaning isolated flooding issues are possible even though widespread flooding is not expected.

Why it matters

Flooding can pose a threat to public safety, damage property, and disrupt transportation. The Pittsburgh region is prone to flooding during heavy rainfall events, so residents and local authorities need to be prepared to mitigate the potential impacts.

The details

According to forecasts, rain totals from Tuesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon could exceed 1.29 inches in Butler, 1.23 inches near Washington, and 1.41 inches near Punxsutawney, with about 1.16 inches expected in Pittsburgh. Storms on Wednesday into Wednesday night may produce locally heavier downpours capable of causing minor flooding in low-lying or poor drainage areas.

• The rainfall is expected to occur from Tuesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon.
• The heaviest rain is forecast to occur on Wednesday into Wednesday night.

What’s next

Residents should clear storm drains, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and monitor weather alerts Wednesday evening as thunderstorms approach. Additional advisories could be issued if heavier rainfall develops overnight.