Severe storms, tornadoes possible in Pittsburgh region

Gusty winds and heavy thunderstorms could strike the Pittsburgh region beginning Wednesday afternoon, according to forecasts.

Meteorologists are even warning of the chance of isolated tornadoes.

TribLive news partner WTAE has designated Wednesday as a Severe Weather Alert Day in Southwest Pennsylvania, with strong storms likely to start as early as 1 p.m. and last throughout the evening.

WTAE meteorologist Ashley Dougherty said rain will impact the region early afternoon, followed by a break in the storms as the workday ends, and then stronger storms will hit starting around 7 p.m.

Strong winds and thunderstorms are expected, and there is a low risk of hail and even tornadoes, according to Dougherty.

Most of the region will be impacted by the storms, but the eastern parts of Westmoreland County and most of Fayette County could avoid the strongest tempests.

Marginal Risk (level 1 out of 5) for severe storms remains on track for today. Main hazard-damaging winds, though a tornado is also possible. Heavy downpours could cause localized flooding. Highest risk for severe wx is this aftn, then again this eve - part of tonight. pic.twitter.com/7ES9rsOZob

— NWS Pittsburgh (@NWSPittsburgh) June 5, 2024

The severe weather is caused by the collision of warm and cold fronts, as a cold front will move through the region, pushing the warm front out of the area.

The storms are expected to end around 3 a.m. Thursday morning.

Warm temperatures that started Wednesday morning and will rise through the afternoon, are expected to cool significantly after the storms roll through.

Cooler weather, high temperatures in the low 70s, is expected through the weekend.