Destructive Storms Hit PA, Cause Power Outages, Road Closures

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA — Thousands are without power Friday after a severe thunderstorm moved through the Philadelphia region earlier in the morning. Local police departments are also reporting multiple downed trees and other damage.

A severe thunderstorm warning was in place through 10:45 a.m. Forecasters warned of the storm, saying it packed 70-mph wind gusts and penny-size hail.

PECO is reporting more than 9,700 outages across the region: More than 3,200 people in Montgomery County are without power, nearly 2,200 in Bucks, and more than 3,700 in Chester County. Delaware County is reporting more than 500 outages.

The National Weather Service in Mt. Holly said "it's been a very busy morning out there." The agency noted at noon that the strongest winds associated with the thunderstorms are now leaving the area.

Specific reports of damage were coming in from Delaware County and Bucks County, where downed power lines and trees were reported.

In Bucks County, police in Doylestown reported a downed tree on Easton Road. Police in Warrington report they're dealing with "multiple" trees down. And in Newtown, Frost Lane is closed due to a down tree.

Earlier in the morning, forecasters warned wind damage with the storms was likely. "Do not wait for the sound of thunder before taking cover," the NWS said in the warning, stressing in capital letters: SEEK SHELTER IMMEDIATELY.

Towns that were under the severe thunderstorm warning included: Pottstown, Phoenixville, Lansdale, West Norriton, Forks, East Norriton, Emmaus,Quakertown, Perkasie, Doylestown, Byram, Wilson, Downingtown, Souderton, Allentown, Easton, Bethlehem, and more.

"Expect considerable tree damage. Damage is likely to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings," the warning said.

The Friday morning thunderstorms are the latest in what has been a very odd winter season in the Philadelphia region. The conditions have been unseasonably warm most of the winter, including a weekend in January with record-breaking high temperatures in the 60s.

The winter has also been very disappointing for snow lovers, with total snowfall nine inches below what is normal for a season. The normal snowfall per season in Philadelphia is 9.3 inches. This year, 0.3 inches has been recorded in Philadelphia, the National Weather Service said.