US: Adverse weather forecast across parts of Ohio Valley and Northeast regions through early April 15

Severe weather is forecast across parts of the Ohio Valley and Northeast regions through at least early April 15. Severe thunderstorms may accompany the heavy downpours at times.

As of late April 14, the US National Weather Service (NWS) issued severe thunderstorm watches and warnings across most of the affected area. Flash flood warnings are in place across parts of Armstrong, Butler, Clarion, Lawrence, and Mercer counties in Pennsylvania. Authorities will likely issue new alerts as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms (the middle level on a five-tier scale) from eastern Ohio east-northeastwards across Pennsylvania and a slight risk across the surrounding areas through early April 15. Tornadoes are possible across the affected area.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities may temporarily close low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather may cause flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites.