Philadelphia woke up Monday, June 22 to thick clouds, sticky 72°F air, and that "something’s coming" kind of humidity. That relative calm will not hang around for long. Forecasters say heavy showers and thunderstorms are likely later today, with the most active stretch expected this afternoon into the night. Drivers and transit riders alike should be ready for slick roads, slow drains in low-lying blocks, and a strong chance of rush-hour headaches.
Afternoon And Evening Threat
A Flood Watch is in effect from 2 PM EDT Monday, June 22 through 6 AM EDT Tuesday, June 23, with forecasters warning that flash flooding is possible across the metro, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas, according to the National Weather Service Mount Holly. Showers are expected to ramp up in the mid to late afternoon and may organize into thunderstorms capable of dumping heavy rain and kicking up damaging gusts, with some storms potentially reaching severe levels. Forecasts call for about a half inch to three quarters of an inch of new rain across the urban corridor, with higher one-hour totals where storms repeatedly track over the same neighborhoods.
Stadium Travel And Event Impacts
Fans heading to Lincoln Financial Field for the 5 PM World Cup match are being told to plan ahead and pad their travel time. The City is pushing public transit, running late-night B-line service on match days, and warning that road closures around the Sports Complex may be put in place, according to the City of Philadelphia. Drivers should brace for traffic and tight parking, while SEPTA riders should budget extra time for crowded trains and slower security and entry lines. Rain gear is a must, along with a backup plan in case severe weather delays getting out after the final whistle.
Local Safety Tips
Drivers are urged not to push their luck with flooded streets: do not drive through standing water, turn around, do not drown, and avoid walking through flooded blocks where water depth and currents can be both misleading and dangerous. Secure loose outdoor items, charge your phone, and keep an eye on localized flash flood alerts before and during any trip. Stay tuned to updates from the National Weather Service and the City, and head indoors if lightning is nearby or severe wind alerts are issued.
