Powerful Storm Soaks Region
PHILADELPHIA (CBS/AP) - A strong storm system that is blanketing the region is expected to drop several inches of rain and bring gusty winds late Thursday night into Friday.
The first round of the storm impacted regions west of Philadelphia. However, the second part, which moved through late Thursday into Friday, was forecasted to impact Philadelphia and South Jersey.
A flood warning is currently in effect for Philadelphia and several counties in South Jersey. In addition, a wind advisory is in effect through Friday morning for all of South Jersey. Winds could gust up to 50 mph, potentially bringing down tree limbs and power lines.
The rain is expected to be at its heaviest from about 11 p.m. Thursday through 8 a.m. Friday.
Experts predict that the Philadelphia area would receive four to six inches of rainfall overnight, potentially resulting in the Schuylkill River's second-worst flooding on record by Friday afternoon.
The city extended the hours of its 3-1-1 call line and Mayor Michael Nutter advised residents in flood-prone neighborhoods to consider staying with family or friends.
SEPTA has already warned commuters of what could be extensive delays during Friday morning's commute.
Gov. Ed Rendell ordered the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency to open its emergency operations center late Thursday afternoon so state agencies could assist communities and residents dealing with heavy rainfall statewide.
The Pennsylvania National Guard was on standby for central and eastern Pennsylvania, expected to see the worst of the flooding, with a potential for evacuations and road closures in some areas, Rendell said.
"People who live along streams and creeks know the dangers of rapidly rising water," he said. "In light of the forecast, these residents ... should take immediate steps to prepare before the situation becomes an emergency."
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