Scranton, Pa. – Northeast Pennsylvania and the Catskills are about to experience heavy rainfall starting at noon on Wednesday, with a Flood Watch in effect until 5 a.m. on Friday.
The National Weather Service predicts that 2 to 3 inches of rain will fall across the region, leading to localized flooding and possible road closures, especially in low-lying areas.
Flood Watch and Rainfall Details
The Flood Watch issued by the National Weather Service covers Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Montrose, Honesdale, Milford, and nearby communities. These areas can expect multiple rounds of rain showers, with the heaviest rainfall likely to occur in Wayne, Pike, and Lackawanna counties, along with Sullivan and Delaware counties in New York.
The forecast calls for 1.5 to 3 inches of rain by Friday afternoon, which could cause small streams and low-lying roads to flood quickly.
Flooding Concerns and Road Closures
Heavy rainfall could overwhelm local infrastructure, particularly in vulnerable areas. Roadways like I-81, Route 6, and various local secondary roads are at risk of flooding, which could make travel dangerous.
Emergency managers are advising drivers to avoid any flooded areas as water levels may rise rapidly, cutting off routes and making it difficult to navigate. Residents should stay alert to weather updates and potential road closures.
How to Prepare for the Rain Event
As heavy rain looms, it’s important to be prepared for potential disruptions. Residents are urged to charge their cell phones, move valuables to higher ground, and monitor local weather updates for school or business delays.
Additionally, there is a possibility of power outages and brief basement flooding in the hardest-hit areas. Taking these steps ahead of the storm will help ensure safety during this significant weather event.
Impact of the Rain and Future Advisories
This upcoming rain event marks one of the most significant storms of the summer for Northeast Pennsylvania. Although the heaviest rain is expected through Thursday night, scattered showers could continue into the weekend. If rain persists, more weather advisories may be issued, and the risk of further flooding remains high.
With heavy rainfall expected across Northeast Pennsylvania and parts of the Catskills, residents should be prepared for flooding, road closures, and possible power outages.
The Flood Watch will remain in effect through early Friday, and further updates will be provided as the weather evolves. Staying informed and taking precautions will be crucial as this storm progresses.
