Damaging winds and thunderstorms are expected to hit parts of southwestern Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia on Friday night. The weather may turn rough between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m. on Saturday, so people in these areas should stay alert and prepare in advance.
What to Expect from the Storms
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, strong thunderstorms are likely to begin around 7–8 p.m. The Pittsburgh metro area is expected to see the worst weather between 9–10 p.m. While this is a Level 1 Marginal Risk, meaning it’s the lowest level of severe storm threat, it still brings a real chance of damaging winds in some areas.
Key areas at risk include:
East Liverpool, Ohio
Morgantown, West Virginia
Washington and Westmoreland counties in Pennsylvania
The main concerns are:
Wind gusts strong enough to knock down small trees and branches
Power outages caused by falling limbs or damaged lines
Wet and slippery roads, especially at night
How to Stay Safe During the Storm
Even though this isn’t the highest level of storm alert, it’s important to take a few safety steps ahead of time:
Charge all your devices like phones and power banks in case of a power cut.
Secure outdoor items such as garden furniture, umbrellas, or bikes.
Stay indoors during the storm and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
Follow updates from reliable sources like weather apps, local news, or the National Weather Service.
If you’re planning to be out for dinner, an event, or a commute Friday evening, keep an eye on the sky and listen for any weather warnings. Travel plans might need to be adjusted if conditions worsen.
Storm Timeline and Outlook
Here’s a simple look at how the evening might unfold:
| Time Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Storms begin to enter the area |
| 9:00 – 10:00 p.m. | Pittsburgh metro likely to be affected |
| 10:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. | Strongest storms move through the region |
| After 2:00 a.m. | Storms move out, but alerts may continue |
Be Ready for Changing Conditions
While the storms are expected to move out by early Saturday morning, weather conditions can change quickly. If the storm system becomes more intense, additional warnings or alerts could be issued overnight. That’s why it’s best to be prepared rather than caught off guard.
Make sure children, elderly family members, and pets are kept safe indoors. If you live in a place that often loses power during storms, keep a flashlight and emergency kit nearby just in case.
