The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flash flood warning for Luzerne County, with heavy rain expected to impact the area. As of 9:47 p.m., two to three inches of rain had already fallen, and the warning is set to remain in effect until 1:00 a.m. Thursday.
Areas that could be affected by flash flooding include Muhlenberg, Harveys Lake, Sweet Valley, Huntington Mills, Lehman, Dallas, Orange, New Columbus, Pikes Creek, and Fern Brook. The NWS warns of potential flooding in small streams and creeks, highways, streets, underpasses, and urban areas with poor drainage.
Authorities advise residents to avoid driving on flooded roads and to seek shelter. Earlier, a tornado warning was issued for northern Bradford County, with a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado spotted over Sylvania. Residents in the path of the storm were urged to take cover in a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
The NWS cautions against being outdoors, in a vehicle, or in a mobile home during severe weather, as flying debris can pose a significant risk. The tornado watch remains in effect for central and eastern Pennsylvania until 11:00 p.m., with the potential for strong-to-severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, and heavy downpours.
Residents are advised to stay informed about weather alerts and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during severe weather events. While the threat of storms will diminish by midnight, isolated showers may persist in the region over the next few days.
