Image Source: CBS News
A severe thunderstorm warning threat eased across the Philadelphia region Tuesday night after a tornado warning for Burlington County, New Jersey, was canceled. However, forecasters warned that dangerous storms could continue affecting parts of the Delaware Valley, with additional severe weather expected Wednesday and Thursday.
The region faced a volatile combination of heat, humidity and thunderstorms. Some storms were capable of producing heavy rainfall, gusty or damaging winds, hail, frequent lightning and an isolated tornado. Residents in Philadelphia, South Jersey, Delaware and surrounding areas were urged to remain alert as conditions changed through the evening.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Threat Eases, But Storms Continue
A severe thunderstorm watch for the Philadelphia region expired Tuesday night, according to CBS Philadelphia. Even after the watch ended, some severe thunderstorm warnings remained in effect for portions of the Delaware Valley.
The tornado warning issued for Burlington County was canceled, reducing the immediate tornado threat in that area. Still, the cancellation did not mean that all severe weather dangers had passed. Storms could continue to bring sudden downpours, strong wind gusts and dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning.
Heavy rain may also create hazardous driving conditions, especially in areas where water collects quickly on roads and in low-lying locations. Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway, even if the water appears shallow.
Dangerous Heat and Storms Return Wednesday
The unsettled weather pattern is expected to remain in place Wednesday and Thursday. Storms are forecast to develop during the afternoon and evening before generally moving from the northwest toward the southeast.
That movement is linked to a large ridge of high pressure positioned to the south. Atmospheric conditions could support multiple weather hazards across much of the region, including damaging winds, hail, frequent lightning and isolated tornadoes.
Wednesday is expected to bring a high near 84 degrees and a low around 73. Thursday could become hot and stormy again, with temperatures reaching approximately 90 degrees and an overnight low near 72.
- Heavy rainfall that may reduce visibility
- Gusty or damaging winds capable of downing branches
- Large hail in stronger thunderstorms
- Frequent lightning and dangerous outdoor conditions
- An isolated tornado, particularly within stronger storm cells
Cold Front Offers Hope for a Calmer Weekend
Forecasters said a strong cold front may cross the area Thursday. The front is expected to gradually push the most serious severe weather threat southward, although Philadelphia and areas farther south could still be affected.
The weather pattern is expected to begin breaking down by Friday. Showers may linger mainly south of Philadelphia, while temperatures remain seasonably warm near 87 degrees.
A noticeable improvement is projected for the first weekend of September. Saturday should be partly cloudy with a high near 82 and lower humidity. Sunday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high around 79. Monday may remain pleasant, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 80.
What Residents Should Do During Severe Storms
People in the Philadelphia region should keep phones charged and monitor official weather alerts throughout Wednesday and Thursday. A severe thunderstorm warning means a storm is occurring or is about to affect a specific area, and residents should move indoors promptly.
During a warning, stay inside and away from windows. If thunder is audible, lightning is close enough to pose a danger. Outdoor activities, swimming and travel should be delayed until the storm passes and local alerts expire.
Residents should also secure lightweight outdoor items, avoid using electrical appliances during lightning and check on neighbors who may need additional assistance. Those traveling should allow extra time, slow down and avoid roads covered by moving water.
The NEXT Weather team at CBS Philadelphia said it would continue monitoring atmospheric conditions and provide updates on storm timing and potential impacts. While the canceled tornado warning offered temporary relief Tuesday night, the broader forecast remains active until the front moves through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was the severe thunderstorm warning canceled across the entire region?
No. The tornado warning for Burlington County, New Jersey, was canceled, and the regional severe thunderstorm watch expired. However, some severe thunderstorm warnings remained active for parts of the Delaware Valley.
What weather threats are possible this week?
Forecasters identified heavy rain, damaging winds, hail, frequent lightning and an isolated tornado as possible threats during the strongest storms.
When will the storm threat return?
Storms are expected to develop again Wednesday and Thursday, mainly during the afternoon and evening hours.
When is the weather expected to improve?
The unsettled pattern may begin weakening Friday, with a relatively pleasant weekend expected. Lower humidity and temperatures near 80 degrees are forecast for Saturday through Monday.
