Severe Weather and Wildfire Smoke Crisis in NEPA
Key Questions
What is the current air quality status in NEPA due to wildfire smoke?
A Code Purple air quality alert is in effect statewide, with AQI in Honesdale at 167 (Unhealthy). Residents should limit outdoor activities and wear N95 masks.
Was a tornado confirmed in Wayne County recently?
Yes, an EF-0 tornado was confirmed in Wayne County following storms on July 20-21, according to a National Weather Service survey. Additional tornado watches and flash flood warnings remain active.
What storm impacts have occurred in NEPA and what is the ongoing risk?
Severe storms caused flash flooding, power outages for thousands, and damage from high winds. A new slow-moving storm system threatens 1-5 inches of rain and additional flash flooding through midweek.
How is the state responding to the recent severe weather?
Governor Shapiro and PEMA have coordinated state response efforts. Storm cleanup is underway with volunteer support in areas like the Poconos.
What assistance is available for affected apple growers?
Pennsylvania launched a $10M grant program to help fruit growers recover from the April freeze. Federal assistance is also being provided to impacted apple growers.
What weather is expected in NEPA next week?
A heat wave is forecast for the coming week following the recent storms. Residents should prepare for high temperatures alongside lingering air quality issues.
Are there any tornado watches or flood risks active?
Flash flood and severe thunderstorm watches are in effect through Tuesday. A tornado was reported over Honesdale during recent storms.
What other regions are facing similar flooding risks?
The Northeast faces another flooding risk this week amid quiet tropical activity. Multiple waves of dangerous storms are possible across the region.
Wildfire smoke crisis continues: Code Purple air quality alert statewide, AQI in Honesdale improved from 207 to 167 (Unhealthy) but still hazardous. Residents advised to limit outdoor activity and wear N95 masks. Heat wave expected next week. Severe storms on July 20-21 brought tornadoes; an EF-0 tornado was confirmed in Wayne County (NWS survey completed). A new tornado warning was issued for Wayne County on July 21. Flash flood watch and severe thunderstorm watch active through Tuesday; weekend storms left thousands without power; restoration may be delayed. A new slow-moving storm system threatens 1-5 inches of rain and flash flooding risk Tuesday-Wednesday. Storm cleanup underway. Governor Shapiro and PEMA provided state response. PCOA seeking storm damage reports from campgrounds. Apple growers receiving federal assistance after April freeze; Pennsylvania launched a $10M grant program to help fruit growers recover.