Philly Braces for Impact: Severe Storms Unleash Chaos – Live Updates Now
Severe Weather Alert: What You Need to Know for Thursday, August 20, 2026
What’s Happening?
Big storms are rolling through the Philadelphia area today. Think of it like nature turning on a giant fire hose and a fan at the same time. We’re expecting:
- Heavy rain that could cause flash flooding (water rising super fast)
- Strong, damaging winds that can knock down trees and power lines
- Possible tornadoes (spinning columns of air that can damage buildings)
Timing: The worst weather is expected during the afternoon and evening commute (roughly 3 PM – 9 PM). The alerts last until 9 PM for storms and 10 PM for the tornado watch.
What You Need to Know (The Official Alerts)
| Alert Type | What It Means | Areas Affected | Until |
|---|---|---|---|
| FIRST ALERT | Heavy rain, severe storms, and tornadoes are happening right now. | Philadelphia Region | 9:00 PM Thursday |
| Tornado Watch | Conditions are right for tornadoes to form. Stay alert! | Parts of DE, NJ, PA, VA | 10:00 PM Thursday |
Key Details Broken Down
- Flash Flood Threat: Multiple rounds of storms = ground gets saturated = water has nowhere to go = sudden flooding.
- Commute Danger: The heaviest weather hits exactly when people are driving home. Stay off roads if possible.
- Isolated Tornadoes: Not a huge outbreak, but any tornado is dangerous. Treat every warning seriously.
Stay Safe: 5 Steps to Take Right Now
- Get Alerts on Your Phone: Download the NBC10 App (free) and turn on notifications. It’s the fastest way to know if a warning is issued for your street.
- Charge Everything: Plug in your phone, laptop, and portable chargers now while power is on.
- Secure Outdoor Stuff: Bring in patio furniture, trash cans, trampolines—anything the wind could turn into a missile.
- Plan Your Commute: If you can work from home or leave early, do it. If you’re on the road when storms hit: Pull over safely, never drive through flooded roads. (Turn Around, Don’t Drown!)
- Know Your Safe Spot: Identify the safest room in your house (basement or interior room on lowest floor, no windows) before a warning sounds.
IMPORTANT: WATCH vs. WARNING
- WATCH = "Ingredients are ready." Be prepared. (This is what we have now).
- WARNING = "It’s happening right now." Take action immediately! Go to your safe spot.
How to Stay Updated
- Download the NBC10 App: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/products/
- Follow the NBC10 First Alert Weather Team: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/weather/
- Check Local NWS Alerts: weather.gov
Summary
Today (Thursday, Aug 20) is a high-impact weather day. A First Alert is active until 9 PM for severe storms, heavy rain, and tornadoes. A Tornado Watch is in effect for DE, NJ, PA, and VA until 10 PM. The biggest risks are flash flooding and damaging winds during the evening commute. Stay informed, stay off roads if you can, and have a plan to get to safety quickly if a Warning is issued.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
1. What’s the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning?
A Watch means tornadoes could form in the next few hours (like a "heads up"). A Warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar right now—you must take shelter immediately.
2. I’m driving and see water covering the road. Can I drive through it if it looks shallow?
NO. Never. It takes only 12 inches of moving water to carry away a small car. The road could also be washed out underneath. Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
3. Where is the safest place in my house during a tornado warning?
Go to the lowest level (basement is best). If no basement, go to a small interior room (bathroom, closet, hallway) away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls between you and outside as possible. Protect your head.
4. Will the storms be over by tonight?
The severe threat should diminish after 10 PM as the system moves east and loses daytime heating. However, lingering rain and gusty winds may continue overnight. Check the forecast before bed.
5. Do I need to worry if I’m not in the "Tornado Watch" box?
The watch covers a broad area. Severe storms with damaging winds and flash flooding are possible outside the watch box too. The First Alert covers the whole Philadelphia region. Stay alert regardless of exact county lines.