Copyright Mechanicsburg Patriot News
Moderate to heavy rain will develop across central Pennsylvania tonight and continue through Thursday afternoon, bringing 1.5 to 2 inches of rainfall to most areas, with isolated amounts exceeding 3 inches possible near the Susquehanna River. The rain will begin in the Laurel Highlands around dusk on Wednesday, spreading northeastward across the region overnight. The heaviest precipitation is expected between midnight and Thursday afternoon, particularly from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday when a plume of tropical moisture linked to Hurricane Mellisa moves through the area. While widespread flooding is not anticipated due to the progressive nature of the storm, localized issues from clogged storm drains are possible. Winds will increase Thursday night as the surface low passes, with gusts reaching 30 to 40 mph. Halloween will be breezy, windy and chilly, with wind-chilled temperatures around 40 degrees during trick-or-treating hours. Peak wind gusts of 40 to 45 mph are expected Friday into Friday evening, approaching Wind Advisory criteria. The weekend will bring continued below-normal temperatures for the start of November. Lake-effect rain showers are likely across the western Alleghenies, with the potential for rain/snow showers in the highest elevations early next week as cooler air moves into the region. Looking ahead, forecasters are monitoring the potential for another significant storm system around Election Day (Tuesday), though confidence in the details remains low at this time. Current weather radar Weather reports Will rain ruin Halloween? Here’s the forecast for trick-or-treat nights in central Pa. Traveling to Jamaica: See latest travel advisory after Hurricane Melissa Hurricane Melissa reaches Cuba after leaving parts of Jamaica under water Significant rain expected in central Pa.: Here’s when it’ll start and stop
