Severe Storm Risk 'Lowered' In Pittsburgh Metro As Cold Front Moves In

PITTSBURGH, PA — The severe storm risk in western Pennsylvania has lessened, but the area remains under a severe thunderstorm watch until 9 p.m.

A cold front is moving into the area, bringing a chance of pop-up storms through the afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service's Pittsburgh office said the severe risk for the metro area "has lowered," but that there's still a risk for storms.

The NWS is tracking two severe storm "segments" in northern Pennsylvania, and one in eastern Ohio.

"In the near term, the severe risk for the Pittsburgh metro has lowered, but we will still have a chance of storms with the passing cold front later this evening," the NWS said.

According to the NWS, the main threat from Thursday's storms "will be large hail and damaging wind gusts. Tornadoes are also possible."

Friday will be cooler, with a high of 86.