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Key Takeaways

• Tornado warning issued for Pittsburgh area April 29, 2025

• Wind gusts over 70 mph cause severe damage across Allegheny County

• Over 200,000 customers affected by widespread power outages

• Confirmed EF-1 tornado in Derry Township, Westmoreland County

• Additional severe weather forecast for late this week

Read more: Severe Storms Sweep Through Pittsburgh: Photos, Videos Show Damaged Buildings, Downed Trees, Capsized Boat

Severe thunderstorm, damaging winds predicted across Southwestern Pennsylvania
Severe thunderstorm, damaging winds predicted across Southwestern Pennsylvania

Overview: Major Storm System Hits Western Pennsylvania

A dangerous line of severe thunderstorms tore through the Pittsburgh region on April 29, 2025, triggering tornado warnings, downing trees and power lines, and knocking out electricity for over 200,000 customers.

This extreme weather event is part of a broader storm system affecting the entire Northeastern United States, including parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and New York.​

Wind Speeds Break Records at Pittsburgh International Airport

The National Weather Service recorded wind gusts up to 71.3 mph at Pittsburgh International Airport—making it the third highest gust ever recorded at the facility. In other areas, widespread straight-line winds of 60–70 mph caused extensive roof damage, snapped utility poles, and uprooted trees.​

Tornado Activity Confirmed in Surrounding Counties

  • Westmoreland County: A confirmed EF-1 tornado touched down near Derry Township. Homes and outbuildings were damaged, and multiple trees were snapped.

  • Beaver County: Tornado sirens activated near Brighton Township; damage is still being assessed.

  • NWS Pittsburgh is currently conducting storm surveys to determine the number and intensity of tornadoes.​

Severe Storms Strike Pittsburgh: Tornado Warnings, 70+ MPH Winds, Power Outages
Severe thunderstorm

Power Outages and Infrastructure Impact

According to Duquesne Light and FirstEnergy:

  • Allegheny County: ~140,000 without power at peak

  • Beaver & Washington Counties: ~60,000 affected

  • Downtown Pittsburgh: Traffic signals failed, with partial blackouts near East Carson Street​

Emergency crews have been working overnight to restore service, with most outages expected to be resolved by Wednesday evening.​

Areas Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch

The Severe Thunderstorm Watch covered:​

  • Allegheny, Washington, Beaver, Butler, and Westmoreland Counties

  • Extending into parts of northern West Virginia and southern New York​

Storm threats included:​

  • Damaging wind gusts over 70 mph

  • Large hail (1.5 inches or more)

  • Isolated tornadoes

  • Localized flash flooding​

Severe Storms Strike Pittsburgh: Tornado Warnings, 70+ MPH Winds, Power Outages
Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Emergency Response and Public Safety Warnings

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) activated regional response teams.​

Public alerts advised:

  • Take shelter immediately during tornado warnings

  • Avoid driving under overpasses or during heavy wind events

  • Report all downed power lines and debris​

Duquesne Light and PennDOT urged residents to stay off roads during cleanup and restoration efforts.​

Outlook: More Storms Possible Later This Week

Meteorologists warn that this storm was not an isolated event. A secondary system may impact the region by Friday or Saturday, with renewed chances of hail, damaging winds, and possible flooding.​

Stay updated via:

  • weather.gov/pbz

  • Local news stations: KDKA, WTAE, WPXI​

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Was a tornado confirmed in Pittsburgh?

A tornado was not confirmed directly in Pittsburgh city limits, but a confirmed EF-1 tornado did touch down in Derry Township, Westmoreland County.​

2. How strong were the winds?

Winds reached over 70 mph, with some locations reporting damage consistent with wind gusts closer to 75 mph.​

3. How many people lost power?

Over 200,000 homes and businesses were left without electricity at the peak of the storm.​

4. Is there more severe weather coming?

Yes. Another round of storms may hit the region later this week. Residents should monitor official weather updates closely.​

5. Where can I report storm damage?

Use your local municipality's emergency non-emergency line or contact your county's emergency management office. Duquesne Light also provides a platform for reporting outages and downed lines.

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