Don’t leave your house without an umbrella this week, Pittsburgh! Starting Tuesday, the city will likely be soaked by a 60% chance of rain, and that’s just the beginning. Forecasters are warning of daily thunderstorms lasting through Friday, bringing the kind of weather that could interrupt everything from your morning commute to outdoor events.
It’s a stormy setup driven by warm temperatures, moist air, and unstable atmospheric conditions, which are all coming together to create a messy and wet weather pattern for western Pennsylvania. And while this isn’t unusual for late May, the back-to-back nature of the storms means this week could be especially unpredictable.
Tuesday Brings First Round of Showers
Meteorologists predict the first noticeable round of rain will hit Tuesday late morning into the afternoon, with a 60% chance of showers and possibly isolated thunderstorms. The temperature is expected to hover in the mid-70s, but the humidity will make it feel warmer—and more uncomfortable.
Rainfall is expected to be scattered, which means while some areas may stay mostly dry, others could experience short bursts of heavy rain, thunder, and even strong wind gusts. Afternoon and early evening plans might get disrupted, so people are encouraged to check weather apps frequently and make backup plans just in case.
What’s Causing All These Storms?
The stormy conditions are being caused by a combination of:
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A low-pressure system moving through the Ohio Valley, pulling in moisture from the south
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High levels of humidity, making the air unstable
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Daytime heating, which causes clouds to build up and release energy in the form of thunderstorms
This classic mix often leads to pop-up storms that can form quickly, hit hard, and disappear just as fast. But that doesn’t mean they’re harmless—especially when several days in a row are affected.
What to Expect Through the Week
After Tuesday, the rain chances remain steady from Wednesday through Friday, with thunderstorms possible each afternoon. These storms won’t be constant, but the pattern suggests a cycle of dry mornings followed by stormy afternoons, a typical setup for this time of year.
If you’re planning anything outdoors—whether it’s sports, gardening, or commuting—it’s best to stay flexible. Sudden weather changes could happen, and lightning or heavy downpours may arrive with little warning.
Key Hazards to Watch For
Here’s what Pittsburgh residents should be aware of throughout the week:
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Flash flooding in low-lying or poorly drained areas
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Slick roads and poor visibility during heavy rain
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Strong winds that can knock down branches or blow around outdoor items
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Lightning strikes, especially during outdoor sports or events
The National Weather Service recommends moving indoors at the first sound of thunder and avoiding travel during peak storm hours.
Simple Tips to Stay Safe This Week
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Check your weather app every few hours, especially before heading out
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Bring an umbrella, even if the morning looks clear
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Avoid driving during heavy rain—wait it out if you can
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Keep outdoor furniture secured or covered
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Have flashlights or phone chargers ready in case of power outages
These tips might seem basic, but they can make a big difference in keeping you and your family safe.
What About the Weekend?
The good news? There are early signs that the storms may move out of the area by Saturday or Sunday, giving Pittsburgh a chance to dry out heading into the weekend. But it’s still too early for a firm forecast, so checking updates later in the week will be important.
Final Thoughts
Pittsburgh is no stranger to rainy weather, but a full workweek of potential afternoon thunderstorms can still cause serious disruptions. With the first round of showers expected Tuesday, now is the time to prepare, stay informed, and take safety seriously.
This isn’t a week to ignore the forecast. Stay dry, stay alert, and remember—just because it starts sunny doesn’t mean it’ll stay that way.
