Another tornado watch issues for Pittsburgh, surrounding area

For the second straight week, a tornado watch has been issued for Pittsburgh and much of western Pennsylvania.

The National Weather Service says the watch is in effect until midnight Thursday.

Locally, Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Washington and Greene Counties are under the watch.

NWS says “a couple of tornadoes (are) possible”.

Also, larger-sized hail is possible in spots along with wind gusts up to 70 mph.

A tornado watch was issued last Thursday before heavy rains fell, causing flooding for much of the area.

A watch means the ingredients are there for a tornado. That doesn’t mean it will necessarily happen.

A warning means the event is happening and proper precautions need to be taken.

If the tornado watch does turn into a warning, Ready.gov says you should do the following:

Go to a safe shelter immediately, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.

Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Do not go under an overpass or bridge.

You’re safer in a low, flat location.

Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.

Use your arms to protect your head and neck. If you can’t stay at home, make plans to go to a public shelter.