National Weather Service Issues Severe Thunderstorm Warning

The National Weather Service upgraded its severe thunderstorm watch to a warning, which has been extended to 5 p.m. Thursday.

It is for northern Allegheny County, including the Sewickley area, extreme southwestern Armstrong County, Beaver County, southern Butler County and southwestern Lawrence County as well as parts of Ohio and West Virginia.

"In addition to large hail and damaging wind ... continuous cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm," the National Weather Service website states. "Move indoors immediately! Lightning is a killer. If you can hear thunder... you are close enough to be struck by lightning."

A remains in effect until 8 p.m. and a flash flood watch also has been issued until 10 p.m.

"Hot and humid air can result in afternoon temperatures climbing into the 90s and heat indices possibly surpassing 100," according to the National Weather Service website.

With the heavy rain and wind expected to spread across the state today, the  is preparing for regionalized flooding and warns motorists to be alert for safety hazards while avoiding driving through floodwaters.

Forecasters are also calling for strong winds, which may down trees and utility lines."

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