Severe Weather Risk in Western New York & Central Pennsylvania, Central State Derecho Possible

Heavy Showers & Storms Moving Into Buffalo, NY Area

07/15/24 2:43 PM ET

Local Buffalo, NY Radar 07/15/24 2:32pm ETPhoto byNWS

Good afternoon everyone. In a passing "blurb" in this morning's article, we mentioned the chance of strong to severe weather in western and central NY this afternoon.

Now we see it taking shape with the help of some energy coming out of the Great Lakes region, combined with the help of hot & humid air and sunshine. These storms have a history of very large hail, damaging winds, and torrential rain. For this reason, the National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for western and central NY, as well as northern parts of Pennsylvania stretching the NY border until 8pm on the easternmost fringe of the watch.

Look for more reports of damaging winds, frequent lightning, flooding rain, large hail, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes.

National Weather Service - Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Binghamton, NY

Meanwhile in the Midwest and Central States, we remain focused on the possibility of a Derecho-type thunderstorm complex later today and overnight tonight. Regardless of whether we attain Derecho status or not, we are looking at widespread severe weather throughout parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and possibly into Michigan & Ohio.

These storms will be capable of winds in excess of 70mph, very large hail, torrential rain, frequent lightning, and tornadoes.

National Weather Service - Hazardous Weather Outlook - Cedar Rapids, Iowa