Weather alert: Tornado warning in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny County

Severe threat over Bridgeville and Pittsburgh early Sunday evening

As of 4:09 p.m. on Sunday, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued an updated tornado warning in effect for Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, until 4:30 p.m. The warning was triggered by a severe thunderstorm located over Bridgeville, near Mount Lebanon, moving east at 25 mph.

The NWS warns: “Flying debris will be dangerous to those without shelter. Mobile homes may be damaged or destroyed. Roofs, windows, and vehicles face potential destruction. Tree damage is likely.”

Areas currently under threat include:

Pittsburgh, Mount Lebanon, Bethel Park, Upper St. Clair, Scott Township, Robinson Township, Cecil-Bishop, Carnegie, Bridgeville, Heidelberg, Rosslyn Farms, South Fayette Township, and Collier Township.

Immediate safety guidance from the National Weather Service

If you are in the warned area, seek shelter now:

Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a well-constructed building, away from windows. If you are outside, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, find the nearest solid shelter immediately. Do not shelter under highway overpasses. If escape is not possible, abandon your vehicle, lie flat in a low-lying area, and cover your head to protect against flying debris.

Understanding the alerts: Tornado watch vs. Tornado warning

Tornado watch: Be prepared

A Tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornado formation. It’s a signal to get ready: check your emergency supplies, go over your safety plan, and locate your shelter spot. Tornado watches can cover multiple counties or states and are issued by the Storm Prediction Center.

Tornado warning: Take action

A Tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or detected by radar. This is a direct and immediate threat. Take shelter immediately. These alerts are issued by local forecast offices and target small, specific areas like a single county or city.

Steps to prepare before a tornado hits

Stay informed

Check local weather reports frequently and keep a NOAA Weather Radio nearby. Enable smartphone alerts and familiarize yourself with local siren systems.

Create a communication plan

Have a family emergency plan that includes a meeting place and contact numbers. If your home lacks a basement, identify a nearby shelter like a church, public building, or a neighbor’s home.

Identify a safe location

Choose a safe room in your home – a basement, storm cellar, or a windowless interior room on the lowest floor.

Conduct tornado drills

Regularly practice your plan with all family members, and include pets in your emergency routine if time permits.

Reinforce your home

Strengthen your safe room using resources and guidelines provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Support your community

Help others get ready, share safety tips, and consider taking a CPR course to be prepared for emergencies.

Tornado survival guide: What to do when it strikes

At home

If under a tornado warning, immediately go to your basement or interior room. Avoid windows. Bring pets if time allows.

At school or work

Follow designated tornado safety procedures. Stay away from windows and large open rooms like gyms or cafeterias.

Outdoors

Seek shelter in a solid building. Do not remain in tents, sheds, or storage units. If no structure is available, find a low-lying area.

In a vehicle

If safe shelter is within driving distance, go there immediately. Otherwise, pull over, crouch low in your vehicle, or lie in a ditch, protecting your head from debris.

Stay alert and take all warnings seriously, especially when issued by the National Weather Service. Allegheny County residents, particularly those in and around Pittsburgh, Mount Lebanon, and Bridgeville, must act now to ensure their safety.