ALLENTOWN, Pa - The National Weather Service has issued an increased severe thunderstorm risk across much of our region for this afternoon and tonight.
The main threat is locally damaging downburst wind gusts, which may lead to downed trees and power lines. There is also a possibility of small hail.
Lehigh County Emergency Management Officials say they are monitoring the potential for excessive heat and heavy rain risks for Lehigh County.
Residents are urged to closely monitor weather forecasts as some areas may experience flash flooding and severe thunderstorms, according to the news release.
The National Weather Service also issued a flood watch for portions of our region, and concerns are heightened about rainfall rates in urban areas and places with poor drainage.
Small streams and flashy basins may also have the potential for river flooding. Heavy rain and damaging winds are major concerns.
National Weather Service
Preparing for emergencies is important.
If you have not done so already, it is important to ensure you:
• Review and update your emergency supply kit. You should have at least a 72-hour supply of non-perishable food, water, medications and other necessities to sustain you, your family and family pets. (Remember a kit for your car and work. In addition to traditional emergency kit items, include an extra clean mask for each person in your household.
Find a complete list of items to include in your kit at https://www.ready.pa.gov/BePrepared/BuildKit/Pages/default.aspx
• Review and update your emergency plan. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance: how you will get to a safe place; how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations. Find a list of simple and practical steps at https://www.ready.pa.gov/BePrepared/MakeaPlan/Pages/default.aspx
National Weather Service
• Have adequate communications plan – be sure friends and family know how to contact you. Teach family members how to use text messaging as text messages can often get around network disruptions when a phone call can’t get through.
• Follow the directions of local officials – evacuation orders may be issued by officials, so follow their guidance for the health and safety of you and your loved ones. • Stay informed; Monitor local weather forecasts and news reports for our area. Remember to have spare batteries for your radio in case of a power outage.
• For the latest information on any watches, warnings, and advisories, please visit www.weather.gov/phi
For additional information, follow WGOLV for daily forecasts, radar, and alerts.
Bobby from Eastern PA Weather Authority is the meteorologist on WGOLV and provides daily forecast videos and alerts.