Severe weather is expected to strike parts of central Pennsylvania today, Thursday, June 20, as powerful thunderstorms develop ahead of an approaching cold front. The National Weather Service is warning residents in the southeastern half of central Pennsylvania, especially Dauphin, Cumberland, York, and Lancaster Counties, to prepare for intense weather conditions this afternoon and evening.
Strong winds likely as storms roll through central Pennsylvania
The storms, which will likely intensify in the afternoon, are expected to bring damaging wind gusts, the primary threat associated with today’s severe weather. These thunderstorms are forecast to develop during the hottest part of the day, before pushing east and exiting the region by midnight. Torrential downpours, frequent lightning, and isolated hail cannot be ruled out.
Friday brings relief before extreme heat takes hold
Tomorrow, Friday, June 21, marks the first official day of summer, and will offer slightly cooler and less humid air. Temperatures will hover in the low to mid 80s Fahrenheit (around 28 °C), with only a minor chance of a brief, passing shower. However, this momentary break will be short-lived.
Intense heat wave builds through the weekend and beyond
By Saturday, temperatures will begin to rise rapidly, setting the tone for a prolonged heat wave. Starting Sunday and continuing into next Wednesday, much of central Pennsylvania will experience daytime highs in the low to mid 90s Fahrenheit (33–35 °C).
Heat index values, which combine temperature and humidity, could surpass 100 °F (38 °C) in some areas, with localized peaks approaching 105 °F (41 °C). The heat dome effect settling over the Eastern United States will make the atmosphere increasingly oppressive, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours.
Stay tuned to updated forecasts, as storm risks today and excessive heat warnings over the weekend could both prompt weather advisories for communities across Pennsylvania.
