Drivers in central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland may encounter perilous nighttime driving Monday as a fast-moving line of severe thunderstorms moves east, potentially bringing tornado warnings and damaging wind gusts.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, areas of central and eastern Pennsylvania, as well as much of Maryland, are at Level 3 “Enhanced Risk” for severe storms on Monday. The biggest hazard is widespread damaging wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph, which can sever tree limbs and knock off power. As storms form a fast-moving squall line, several tornadoes may emerge.
The most severe consequences are likely from late afternoon to late evening when storms travel from central Pennsylvania to the Susquehanna Valley and northern Maryland. Cities such as Harrisburg, York, Lancaster, Baltimore, and Hagerstown may see strong winds and heavy rain that hinder travel along Interstates 81, 83, 76, and 95.
Before storms hit, emergency managers advise residents to secure outside objects, charge mobile devices, and turn on wireless emergency notifications. Brief tornado spin-ups embedded inside the storm line can develop swiftly, providing little warning time for towns across the region.
Additional severe thunderstorm or tornado watches may be issued on Monday if the storm system strengthens. The severe weather threat will continue to shift toward New Jersey and the Northeast late Monday night.