Fog and mist are hanging over Pittsburgh early Tuesday, July 21, 2026, with temperatures near 66°F at Allegheny County Airport and visibility around 5 miles. A Flood Watch is posted from 1 PM to 11 PM, and forecasters are calling for severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours and gusty winds to roll through this afternoon and evening.
Afternoon Severe Threat
The main punch is expected from midday into the evening on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, when more organized storms could fire up with damaging straight-line winds, as well as isolated tornadoes or large hail. Parts of the Upper Ohio Valley are under an Enhanced Risk for severe storms, which signals the potential for numerous damaging storms this afternoon and evening, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
Flood Watch and Flash Flood Risk
The Flood Watch runs from 1 PM to 11 PM EDT Tuesday, July 21, 2026. Forecasters warn that training thunderstorms could drop 2 to 4 inches of rain in spots, with short bursts of even heavier rain and a risk of flash flooding in creeks, streams and low-lying urban areas. Southwest winds are expected to ramp up in the storms, with gusts reaching about 29 mph at times. Residents are urged to keep an eye out for Flash Flood Warnings and any additional watches that may be issued for specific counties, according to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh.
Commute and Safety Tips
Morning fog could put a drag on the early commute, though visibility should improve by mid-morning before dropping again in heavier showers later on. If you have to be on the road this afternoon or evening, build in some extra travel time, steer clear of standing water, secure any loose outdoor items and head to a sturdy shelter if lightning or damaging winds move in.
What Comes Next
Showers and non-severe storms should wind down into early Wednesday, with highs near the upper 70s and lower rain chances as the week goes on. For background on a similar setup earlier this month, revisit our July 6 flash flood scare.
