Central Pa. could see severe thunderstorms, damaging winds and hail Tuesday

• Katie Knol/WITF
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  Katie Knol is WITF's General Assignment Reporter & Host.
  
  She graduated from Penn State University in 2024, earning bachelor's degrees in journalism and political science. She has also worked at WPSU, the News Lab at Penn State, The Daily Collegian and CommRadio.

Central Pennsylvanians could see severe weather this evening, including thunderstorms, strong winds, hail and pop-up tornadoes, according to the ABC27 forecast.

Meteorologist Brett Thackara said the threat is caused by an approaching cold front interacting with the region’s hot and humid air. However, he said, some clouds moving in from the western part of the state could limit some of the more severe weather events.

“There’s still going to be enough thunderstorm activity later today that damaging straight-line winds, the kind that can knock over trees or power lines, those are still on the table today,” Thackara said. “I would suggest any time from mid-afternoon through this evening.”

To stay up-to-date, he recommends people follow forecasts from a trusted weather source or the National Weather Service. Thackara said Central Pennsylvanians shouldn’t panic, but should be ready to seek shelter if severe weather develops.

“The best thing that people can do is to keep everything charged in case they lose power, and that way they have their phone with them and that’s really the best way to get information because you can access watches and warnings,” he said. “Make sure you have a reliable source to get that information.”