The National Weather Service in State College issued a Flash Flood Warning for east central Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, effective from 9:58 PM EDT on August 27 until 1:00 AM EDT on August 28. The warning, based on Doppler radar, indicates thunderstorms have produced between 1 and 3 inches of rain, with up to 1 inch more possible. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.
KEY FACTS
- The warning covers east central Lancaster County, including New Holland, Leola, Bareville, Blue Ball, Goodville, and White Horse.
- Radar indicated 1 to 3 inches of rain have already fallen, with additional rainfall up to 1 inch possible.
- Flash flooding is expected in small creeks, streams, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses, and other poor drainage areas.
- The warning is in effect until 1:00 AM EDT on August 28.
CONTEXT
The National Weather Service issued the warning at 9:58 PM EDT on August 27, based on Doppler radar data. The affected area is east central Lancaster County in south central Pennsylvania. The warning is set to expire at 1:00 AM EDT on August 28. Residents in the warned areas should be prepared for potential flooding of small waterways and urban drainage systems. The NWS advises avoiding travel through flooded areas and heeding local emergency management instructions.
WHY IT MATTERS
Flash flooding poses an immediate threat to life and property, particularly in low lying areas and urban settings where drainage may be overwhelmed. The affected communities, including New Holland and Leola, may experience road closures and property damage. Timely warnings allow residents to take precautions, such as moving to higher ground and avoiding flooded roadways.
WHAT TO WATCH
- Monitor local weather updates and any additional warnings from the National Weather Service.
- Be alert for rising water in creeks, streams, and urban drainage systems.
- Avoid driving through flooded roads; turn around, don't drown.
- Check on neighbors, especially those in vulnerable areas.