Pittsburgh is starting Thursday with fog, showers or thunderstorms possible. The calm setup will not last. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more likely through the morning, with additional storms possible into the afternoon before conditions ease Thursday night.
Storms Could Bring Heavy Downpours
Thursday’s storms could produce heavy rain, isolated flooding and gusty winds.
Showers and thunderstorms are possible Thursday. Convection should wane between 00Z and 06Z, while westerly winds may reach 10 knots.
Friday Brings A Brief Break
How Thursday Compares With Past Rain
Thursday’s forecast totals are well below the rainfall documented in one notable local flash-flood event. According to National Weather Service Pittsburgh, a separate Pitcairn flash-flood event on July 1, 1997, produced a near-4.5-inch isolated maximum. That history shows how flooding can be highly localized, but it does not predict similar impacts Thursday. The National Weather Service Pittsburgh climate page shows a warm-season spike in its monthly graphs from May through August, along with a cool-season spike in January; those summaries provide seasonal context but do not establish a long-term increase in storms. The available records also do not identify specific Pittsburgh-area roads, waterways or neighborhoods with recurring flood exposure. For immediate safety, Pittsburgh Water says six inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult, while 12 inches can carry away a car.
Friday looks noticeably quieter, with partly sunny skies and a high near 80 degrees. Friday night should be partly cloudy and cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 60.
Saturday stays mostly sunny and near 80 degrees, but the unsettled pattern returns Saturday night. Showers and thunderstorms are possible into early next week.
What To Know Before Heading Out
No watches, warnings or advisories are currently listed for the area. Still, drivers and anyone making outdoor plans should be ready for sudden downpours Thursday, especially during the late-morning and afternoon storm window.
