Tornado Watch Expanded Across Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin Amid Intensifying Severe Weather Threat Tornado Watch Expanded Across Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin Amid Intensifying Severe Weather Threat
Severe Storms Strike Pittsburgh: Tornado Warnings, 70+ MPH Winds, Power Outages Severe Storms Strike Pittsburgh: Tornado Warnings, 70+ MPH Winds, Power Outages
A tree blocks Arndt Road between Mt. Nebo Road and Reis Run Road after storms on April 29, 2025
A tree blocks Arndt Road between Mt. Nebo Road and Reis Run Road after storms on April 29, 2025

Widespread Power Outages

The storms caused significant power outages across western Pennsylvania. Duquesne Light reported over 230,000 customers without power in Allegheny County alone, while West Penn Power noted outages affecting more than 194,000 customers in the region. Utility crews are working diligently to restore electricity, but many areas remain in the dark.​

Structural Damage and Downed Trees

Winds ripped off part of a roof and left it sitting at an intersection on the South Side in Pittsburgh on April 29, 2025.
Winds ripped off part of a roof and left it sitting at an intersection on the South Side in Pittsburgh on April 29, 2025.
Roof blown off Jordan’s Auto Body in North Versailles
Roof blown off Jordan’s Auto Body in North Versailles

High winds, with gusts exceeding 70 mph, led to extensive structural damage. In Pittsburgh's South Side, part of a roof was torn off and landed at an intersection. Mt. Lebanon experienced snapped trees blocking roads, while in Beaver County, fallen trees obstructed streets and damaged property. ​

Strong winds uprooted a tree in Oakmont
Strong winds uprooted a tree in Oakmont

In Monroeville, a dramatic video showed a tree crashing onto a road just moments after a car passed by, highlighting the sudden and dangerous nature of the storm. ​

Trees block Beverly Road in Mt. Lebanon after storms
Trees block Beverly Road in Mt. Lebanon after storms
Tree down on McMonagle Avenue in Scott Township
Tree down on McMonagle Avenue in Scott Township

Capsized Boat on Monongahela River

Severe Storms Sweep Through Pittsburgh: Photos, Videos Show Damaged Buildings, Downed Trees, Capsized Boat
Tiki boat capsizes on the Mon River

One of the most striking incidents was a small tiki boat capsizing on the Monongahela River due to the intense winds. The incident was captured on video and shared widely on social media, underscoring the storm's severity. ​

Fires and Additional Hazards

Wires on fire in Jefferson Hills:

In Jefferson Hills, downed power lines sparked fires along Route 51, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and residents. Emergency services responded promptly to contain the fires and secure the area. ​

Community Response and Safety Measures

Severe Storms Sweep Through Pittsburgh: Photos, Videos Show Damaged Buildings, Downed Trees, Capsized Boat
Bus stop damaged in Pittsburgh

Local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution as cleanup efforts continue. They advise staying clear of downed power lines, reporting hazards to emergency services, and avoiding unnecessary travel until roads are cleared.​

Utility companies have provided online resources for customers to report outages and check restoration times. Duquesne Light and West Penn Power are updating their websites regularly with the latest information.​

FAQs

Q: How can I report a power outage?

A: Customers can report outages through Duquesne Light's Outage Map and West Penn Power's FirstEnergy Storm Center PA.​

Q: What should I do if I encounter downed power lines?

A: Stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines and report them immediately to your utility provider or local emergency services.​

Q: Are there shelters available for those affected by the storm?

A: Local emergency management agencies are coordinating shelter efforts. Residents in need should contact their county's emergency services for assistance.​

Stay Informed

For the latest updates on weather conditions and recovery efforts, residents are encouraged to monitor local news outlets and official social media channels. Staying informed is crucial as the community works together to recover from this severe weather event.