HARRISBURG, Pa. — The FOX43 Weather Team has issued a Weather Impact Alert as we track Tropical Storm Debby as it moves up the East Coast. The main threats for South Central Pennsylvania with this storm are heavy rain and strong to severe storms.
The outer bands of Debby start working into our area overnight Thursday, though the heaviest of the rain is expected early Friday morning through the afternoon. Rain will cause flooding concerns across the area.
A FLOOD WATCH has been issued for our entire area starting tonight and continuing through Saturday at 2 am. Areas west of Harrisburg are expected to get the highest rain totals, though a soaking rain is expected area-wide. We are anticipating a widespread 2-4 inches of rain, with isolated spots closer to 5-6+ inches depending on where the heaviest storms set up.
Along with the potential for flooding on roadways, we'll need to watch creeks and streams as well. The National Weather Service is forecasting the Swatara Creek from Harper Tavern to Middletown to get near or above minor flood stage. We'll also closely monitor the Yellow Breeches and Conodoguinet creeks as water levels rise to action stage and near minor flood stage.
In addition to the flood threat, there is a low severe weather threat on Friday as Debby works north. We'll watch for a chance for strong to severe storms with damaging wind gusts and a brief, spin-up tornado possible. The biggest concern is around the capitol and points east, though everyone needs to stay weather aware through the day.
Rain and storms are expected to quickly taper off as we approach dinnertime.
We'll continue to watch river levels as we go into the weekend, but starting Saturday it is a dry forecast ahead with even a drop in the humidity.
You can find more details on the full extended forecast here.