Severe Thunderstorms Heading Toward Allegheny County

Severe thunderstorms with strong winds and large hail are possible late this afternoon and early tonight, according to the National Weather Service.

A special weather advisory issued at 9:55 a.m. stated Doppler radar indicated strong thunderstorms along a line extending from six miles north of Fredonia in Mercer County to 27 miles west of East Fultonham, Ohio, were moving east at 60 mph.

"These storms will produce heavy downpours and possible wind gusts to 40 mph," the weather service stated.

The National Weather Service issued a hazardous weather outlook at 4 a.m

"Thunderstorms have the potential to become severe," the weather service said in that statement. "The prime threat will be damaging wind and large hail. However, tornado development cannot be ruled out."

 More than an inch of rain is possible, the weather service said.

"Rain amounts over two inches may be needed to cause small stream flooding," according to the National Weather Service. "The wind is another concern this afternoon and tonight, as the wind can gust over 35 mph, even in areas away from thunderstorms.