Flash flood warning Allegheny County Wednesday night

Flash flood warning issued in Allegheny County until 9:30 p.m. Turn around, don't drown. Follow safety guidelines during heavy rain.

At 7:34 p.m. on Wednesday, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for Allegheny County, effective until 9:30 p.m. Doppler radar detected thunderstorms with heavy rain in the warned area, with an expected rainfall rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour. Additional rainfall of 1 to 3 inches is possible, leading to ongoing or imminent flash flooding in small creeks, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses, and other low-lying areas.

The warning impacts various locations, including Pittsburgh, Penn Hills, Mount Lebanon, Bethel Park, and more. The weather service advises individuals to avoid flooded roads and move to higher ground to prevent flood-related accidents, as most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

A flash flood warning indicates an imminent or ongoing flash flood, which can occur suddenly and violently within minutes to hours, even in areas without current rainfall. A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or happening, while a flood advisory warns of potential inconvenience and threats to life and property without caution.

A flood watch indicates favorable conditions for flooding, while following the weather service's flood safety guidelines can be crucial in flood-prone areas or low-lying regions. Avoid flooded basements and submerged areas, and never drive through flooded roads, as even 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can sweep away most cars.

During heavy rain, the risk of flooding and dangerous roads increases, necessitating adherence to safety measures provided by the weather service. Stay informed about weather conditions, follow advice from local authorities, and prioritize your safety to ensure a safe journey during heavy rainfall.