Tornado and Flash Flooding in Pennsylvania, May 28, 2019

Name: Tornado and Flash Flooding in Pennsylvania, May 28, 2019
Start: 2019-05-28T13:26
End: 2019-05-28T21:56
Location: Pennsylvania

May 28, 2019 · NWS PBZ · 81 events in 11 counties and zones

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 0
Property damage: $5.1 million
Crop damage: $117,000
Events: 81

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS PBZ wrote it up.

Mid-level westerly flow of 45-70kts streamed over the Great Lakes/Upper Ohio Valley. A shortwave trough embedded within this zonal flow entered the region and moved eastward throughout the day, helping to provide forcing for ascent and strengthening of deep layer shear. Mid-level westerly flow of 45 to 70 knots also streamed over the Great Lakes and the Upper Ohio Valley. Large hail was supported by mean layer CAPE of 1500 to 3000 J/kg and effective bulk shear of 35 to 50kts. Additionally, strong synoptic winds and steepening low-level lapse rates increased the severe wind threat.

With high precipitable water values of around 1.5 inches, training storms were also able to produce localized flooding.

The hail from this event was so severe that windows in homes broke and cars were damaged. A local car dealership said that from the time of the incident to the end of September they were booked with car repairs due to hail damage. Roughly, the damage from hail for this event cost at least 12 million dollars.

The town of Zelienople, PA was hit hard with rain, as a total of 4 to 5 inches accumulated in just a few hours. As a result, the Connoquenessing Creek rose throughout the night and crested at just over 15.3 feet on Wednesday morning, May 29th. Based on historical crests, this was the 4th highest crest on record; records go back to the early 1920s.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Pittsburgh, PA wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at May 28, 12:20 PM EST, 1 hour 6 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, May 28, 12:20 PM EST, 1 hour 6 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Pittsburgh PA
120 PM EDT Tue May 28 2019

.SYNOPSIS...
The risk for showers and storms, some of which could be severe, will
continue through Wednesday. Daily shower and thunderstorm chances
will then continue into Friday.

&&

.NEAR TERM /UNTIL 6 PM THIS EVENING/...
Lull in radar coverage currently in the wake of the overnight/early
morning convection,  but more strong to severe activity is
anticipated later today and this evening. Surface low pressure will
track to our north near the Lake Erie shore, along a nearly
stationary frontal boundary. CAMs are supportive of generating
convection near the boundary starting around 19Z, with storms
generally tracking ESE after development. South of the front, good
instability will build up thanks to sufficient sunshine, with HREF
mean SBCAPE of between 2500 and 3500 J/kg generally north of I-70.
Overall shear profile is certainly supportive of severe weather, with
more of a speed than a directional component in the 0-6km layer.
Wind/hail still appear to be the main threats given the shear, the
potentially deep CAPE profiles, and strong mid-level flow. A tornado
or two will also be possible, although low-level directional shear is
a bit low for a higher probability of that threat. With the heavier
storms remaining generally north of I-70, and with FFG values higher
here as opposed to the south, think that any flooding issues should
remain isolated at best. However, this threat will need to be
reassessed tomorrow as another round of storms is anticipated. Minor
changes made to afternoon temperatures, mainly upward a degree or
two.

&&

.SHORT TERM /6 PM THIS EVENING THROUGH THURSDAY/...
Convection will gradually diminish overnight Tuesday with the loss
of heating.

Strong southeast CONUS ridging will continue through Wednesday
before a deep high-plains low ejects towards the eastern CONUS.
Wednesday will be warm with a chance of rain in the late afternoon
and evening as small perturbations move through zonal-flow aloft.

The aforementioned low will then bring rain and slightly cooler
weather on Thursday.

&&

.LONG TERM /THURSDAY NIGHT THROUGH TUESDAY/...
Rain will continue into Friday before upper flow flattens out again.

After Friday, expect daily rain chances with each passing shortwave
trough or perturbation in the quasi-zonal flow.

&&

.AVIATION /17Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/...
Showers and thunderstorms will develop this afternoon due to a
combination of lift along a weak cold frontal boundary just south of
Erie and daytime destabilization. Storm will move east southeast with
the 700mb flow through the evening hours, and likely will impact
most sites north of I-70 with the strongest storms along the I-80
corridor. Less certainty on the southern and western extent of these
storms, and will largely be dictated by these storms creating their
own cold pool and driving the frontal boundary farther south than
projected.

Widespread restrictions are likely to develop Wednesday morning in
the wake of today's convection, as increased moisture in the boundary
layer will remain stuck under a low level inversion. Though not
likely considering expected cloud cover, valley fog will be possible
if some clearing occurs.

.Outlook...
Periodic restriction potential will continue through Fri as rounds of
storms and associated disturbances cross the region.

&&

.PBZ WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
MD...None.
OH...None.
PA...None.
WV...None.

&&

Hazardous weather outlook, May 28, 1:05 PM EST, 21 minutes before

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Pittsburgh PA
205 PM EDT Tue May 28 2019

OHZ039>041-049-050-PAZ007>009-013>016-020>023-029-073>076-WVZ001-002-
291815-
Tuscarawas-Carroll-Columbiana-Harrison-Jefferson OH-Mercer-Venango-
Forest-Lawrence-Butler-Clarion-Jefferson PA-Beaver-Allegheny-
Armstrong-Indiana-Washington-Westmoreland-Westmoreland Ridges-
Fayette-Fayette Ridges-Hancock-Brooke-
205 PM EDT Tue May 28 2019

...TORNADO WATCH 274 IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for east central Ohio, northwest
Pennsylvania, southwest Pennsylvania, west central Pennsylvania,
western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia and northern panhandle
of West Virginia.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Tornado Watch.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday.

Scattered to numerous severe thunderstorms are expected once again
Wednesday afternoon and evening. The main threat will be damaging
wind gusts and large hail. An isolated tornado is possible as well.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

MDZ001-OHZ048-057>059-068-069-PAZ031-WVZ003-004-012-021-509>514-
291815-
Garrett-Coshocton-Muskingum-Guernsey-Belmont-Noble-Monroe-Greene-
Ohio-Marshall-Wetzel-Marion-Monongalia-
Ridges of Eastern Monongalia and Northwestern Preston-Preston-
Eastern Preston-Western Tucker-Eastern Tucker-
205 PM EDT Tue May 28 2019

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for western Maryland, east
central Ohio, southwest Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia and
northern panhandle of West Virginia.

.DAY ONE...This afternoon and tonight.

Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms are expected late this
afternoon and this evening. The main threat will be damaging wind
gusts and large hail. An isolated tornado is possible as well.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday.

Scattered to numerous severe thunderstorms are expected once again
Wednesday afternoon and evening. The main threat will be damaging
wind gusts and large hail. An isolated tornado is possible as well.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

In the hours before

Local storm report, May 28, 8:24 AM EST, 5 hours 2 minutes before

PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PITTSBURGH PA
924 AM EDT TUE MAY 28 2019

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0444 PM     TSTM WND DMG     2 SSE NEW ATHENS        40.16N  80.98W
05/25/2019                   BELMONT            OH   DEPT OF HIGHWAYS

            TWO TREES DOWN ON ROUTE 9 NEAR BELMONT AND HARRISON
            COUNTY BORDER.

&&

EVENT NUMBER PBZ1902125

JF

The radar

The Pittsburgh radar (KPBZ), 97 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 18:27 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

50 hail, 15 flash flood, 13 thunderstorm wind, 2 heavy rain, 1 tornado. Local standard time, as filed.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:26 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 1.55 mi W of Clarks Mills
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 41.400, -80.210

A citizen reported hail 1.00 inch in size.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:35 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 0.86 mi NE of Stoneboro
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.340, -80.110

A trained spotter reported hail 1.00 inch in size.

Hail, Lawrence

When: May 28, 1:35 PM EST
Where: Lawrence County, 0.52 mi W of Harlansburg
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 41.020, -80.190

A citizen reported hail the size of a quarter.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:38 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 1.7 mi ENE of Coulson
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.360, -80.120

A emergency manager estimated a hundred trees down on Lake Hill Road.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:39 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, Sandy Lake
Measured: 2.75 in hail
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 41.350, -80.080

The local fire department reported hail 2.75 inches in size. Windows were broken in homes and cars were badly damaged.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:40 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 1.25 mi WNW of Sandy Lake
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.360, -80.100

A local emergency manager reported multiple trees down near McKeever Environmental Center.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:41 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 1.25 mi WNW of Sandy Lake
Measured: 2.5 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.360, -80.100

Hail 2.50 inches in size was reported on social media.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lawrence

When: May 28, 1:42 PM EST
Where: Lawrence County, 0.52 mi W of Harlansburg
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 41.020, -80.190

A 911 Call Center reported trees and a power pole down on Eastbrook Harlansburg Rd and Route 19.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:44 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, Sandy Lake
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.350, -80.080

The local emergency manager reported multiple trees down near Patton Road.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:44 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 0.86 mi NE of Stoneboro
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.340, -80.110

A trained spotter reported 1.75 inches in size.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:46 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, Sandy Lake
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.350, -80.080

A trained spottered reported hail 1.50 inches in size. The spotter also reported 12 inch diameter trees down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Butler

When: May 28, 1:46 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 1.71 mi ESE of Coyleville
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.840, -79.690

A 911 Call Center reported power lines down on Burke Road.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:47 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 0.69 mi N of Sandy Lake
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.360, -80.080

A trained spotter reported hail 1.75 inches.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 1:47 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.69 mi S of Fenelton
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.870, -79.730

One inch hail was reported via social media, a picture was provided.

Hail, Mercer

When: May 28, 1:48 PM EST
Where: Mercer County, 0.86 mi NE of Stoneboro
Measured: 2.25 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.340, -80.110

A trained spotter reported hail 2.25 inches.

Hail, Venango

When: May 28, 1:52 PM EST
Where: Venango County, 1.7 mi ENE of Pearl
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.290, -79.900

Hail 1.5 inches in size was reported through social media.

Hail, Venango

When: May 28, 1:52 PM EST
Where: Venango County, 0.86 mi SE of Springville
Measured: 2.75 in hail
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 41.310, -79.910

A former NWS Employee reported hail the size of a tennis ball.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 1:52 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.87 mi SE of Buffalo Creek
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.810, -79.640

A trained spotter reported hail 1.75 inches in diameter. The ground was covered in hail, and the spotter reported that his windows broke.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 1:55 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.69 mi S of West Kittanning
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.810, -79.530

A CoCoRaHS observer reported hail 1.5 inches in size.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 2:00 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.69 mi S of West Kittanning
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.810, -79.530

A trained spotter reported hail 1.25 inches in size.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 2:01 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 1.48 mi SSE of West Kittanning
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.800, -79.520

A trained spotter reported hail 1.75 inches in size.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 2:05 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.87 mi NE of West Kittanning
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.830, -79.520

A social media reported hail 1.50 inches in size.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 2:10 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 1.05 mi W of Whitesburg
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.750, -79.420

A citizen reported a mix of half dollar and quarter size hail.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 2:14 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, Ford City
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.770, -79.530

A trained spotter reported hail to 1.75 inches in diameter on 4th Avenue.

Hail, Clarion

When: May 28, 2:19 PM EST
Where: Clarion County, 0.52 mi E of Knox
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.230, -79.540

A picture of hail the size of a quarter was reported on social media.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 2:27 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 1.72 mi ESE of Elderton
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.690, -79.320

A trained spotter reported 1 inch diameter hail.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 2:28 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 0.52 mi W of Creekside
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.680, -79.190

One inch hail reported via social media. A picture was provided.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 2:33 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 1.48 mi NNW of Chevy Chase Hgts
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.650, -79.160

Hail measuring 1.25 inches in diameter was reported via social media.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 2:34 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 1.48 mi NNE of Indiana Co Arpt
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 40.650, -79.090

An emergency manager reported quarter size hail at the Jimmy Stewart Airport.

Thunderstorm Wind, Venango

When: May 28, 2:44 PM EST
Where: Venango County, 0.86 mi NE of Cooperstown
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 41.510, -79.870

The Department of Highways reported a tree down and blocking a road in Jackson Township.

Thunderstorm Wind, Venango

When: May 28, 2:45 PM EST
Where: Venango County, 1.24 mi ENE of Dempseytown
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 41.530, -79.780

The Department of Highways reported power line down and blocking the intersection near Pump Station Road and Wallaceville Road.

Tornado, Indiana

When: May 28, 2:45 PM EST to 2:47 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 0.78 mi SW of Penn Run to 0.69 mi SSW of Penn Run
Rating: EF0
Path length: 0.26 mi
Path width: 30 yd
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 40.613, -79.032

A NWS Storm Survey reported an EFO tornado along State Route 553. There were |pictures and sightings of a funnel cloud with this storm as it |moved through central Indiana County. The damage was to a handful|of hardwood trees, where large branches were broken and small |trees were snapped at the trunk. The beginning and ending points |were estimated since they were located in an open field.

Thunderstorm Wind, Beaver

When: May 28, 2:45 PM EST
Where: Beaver County, 2.14 mi NNE of Fombell
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.830, -80.190

A 911 Call Center reported a large tree down on Route 288 at Bowers Drive.

Hail, Clarion

When: May 28, 2:47 PM EST
Where: Clarion County, 0.87 mi SE of Frogtown
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 41.110, -79.310

A trained spotter reported hail an inch in size.

Thunderstorm Wind, Indiana

When: May 28, 2:50 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 1.72 mi ENE of Penn Run
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.630, -78.990

A 911 Call Center reported a tree and power lines down on PA-553.

Hail, Armstrong

When: May 28, 2:52 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.87 mi SW of Tarrtown
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.840, -79.530

A citizen reported 1 inch hail.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 3:19 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 1.48 mi NNE of Bruin
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 41.090, -79.740

A citizen reported 1 inch hail.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 3:38 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 0.87 mi NW of Wandin Jct
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.690, -78.980

A citizen reported 1 inch hail.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lawrence

When: May 28, 3:40 PM EST
Where: Lawrence County, 1.56 mi W of New Castle
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 41.000, -80.380

An emergency manager reported trees down on power lines on West Washington Street in Union Township.

Hail, Jefferson

When: May 28, 3:41 PM EST
Where: Jefferson County, 2.95 mi NNW of Kahletown
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 41.310, -79.170

A local citizen reported hail 1.75 inches in size. Dents to vehicles were also noticed.

Hail, Lawrence

When: May 28, 3:45 PM EST
Where: Lawrence County, New Castle
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 41.000, -80.350

Social media report of a hail the size of a quarter.

Hail, Clarion

When: May 28, 3:51 PM EST
Where: Clarion County, 0.87 mi SE of St Charles
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 40.990, -79.370

The Department of Highways reported hail the size of a quarter.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 3:51 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, Elders Ridge
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.580, -79.400

One inch hail was reported by a local citizen at Elders Ridge Road.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 4:00 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.87 mi SW of Zelienople
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.790, -80.140

One inch hail reported via social media.

Hail, Lawrence

When: May 28, 4:25 PM EST
Where: Lawrence County, 0.87 mi NW of Enon
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.860, -80.460

Social media post of hail 1.25 inches in size.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 4:28 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.87 mi SW of Ogle
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.690, -80.110

Hail of up to 1.25 inches in diameter was reported via social media.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 4:29 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 1.48 mi SSW of Mars Lakehill Arpt
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.680, -80.040

A citizen reported hail of 1.25 inches in diameter.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 4:29 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 2.51 mi WNW of Hortons
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.850, -78.920

A citizen reported 1 inch hail along Church Road.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 4:30 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 1.26 mi ESE of Fernway
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.690, -80.060

One inch hail reported via social media.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 4:35 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.52 mi E of Downieville
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.680, -79.990

A citizen reported hail measuring 1.75.

Thunderstorm Wind, Allegheny

When: May 28, 4:35 PM EST
Where: Allegheny County, 1.38 mi N of Warrendale
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.670, -80.080

A 911 call center reported a tree down near the intersection of Freeport Rd and Whistle Pig Lane.

Hail, Allegheny

When: May 28, 4:36 PM EST
Where: Allegheny County, 0.87 mi NE of Bakerstown Station
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.660, -79.960

Hail was reported 1.25 in size on social media.

Hail, Allegheny

When: May 28, 4:36 PM EST
Where: Allegheny County, 0.69 mi N of Bakerstown Station
Measured: 2 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.660, -79.970

A citizen reported hail 2.00 inches on social media.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 4:37 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.52 mi W of Downieville
Measured: 2 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.680, -80.010

A citizen reported hail of 2 inches along Four Lakes Drive.

Hail, Allegheny

When: May 28, 4:40 PM EST
Where: Allegheny County, 0.87 mi NE of Bakerstown Station
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.660, -79.960

An NWS Employee reported hail 1.75 inches in diameter. Corrected for time.

Hail, Allegheny

When: May 28, 4:42 PM EST
Where: Allegheny County, 1.05 mi W of Bakerstown
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.650, -79.940

A citizen reported hail 1.75 inches in diameter.

Hail, Butler

When: May 28, 4:43 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.52 mi E of Mars
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.700, -80.010

An NWS Employee reported quarter sized hail.

Hail, Beaver

When: May 28, 4:45 PM EST
Where: Beaver County, 0.52 mi E of Unionville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.750, -80.210

A citizen reported 1.00 inch hail.

Thunderstorm Wind, Beaver

When: May 28, 4:45 PM EST
Where: Beaver County, 0.69 mi S of Unionville
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.740, -80.220

A citizen reported trees snapped and uprooted.

Thunderstorm Wind, Butler

When: May 28, 4:45 PM EST to 4:46 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.5 mi SE of Evans City
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) estimated gust
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.764, -80.064

Drone footage confirmed a downburst began near the Evans City Cemetery and spread into the southeast side of Evans City. A diverging debris pattern is noted in the swath of trees snapped or uprooted along the northeast facing hillside as the outflow raced into town. Video in town and damage confirms severe wind continued into Evans City along Mars Evan City Rd and 3rd St. May Lane and Crescent St. where trees were uprooted and a 100 pound grill was moved. Damage and observation via in-situ video are consistent with maximum wind of 70-75mph.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 4:46 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 1.74 mi SE of Luciusboro
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.500, -79.060

A citizen reported hail near a quarter in size, with a few stones possibly being slightly larger.

Flash Flood, Beaver

When: May 28, 5:22 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Beaver County, 0.52 mi E of Bridgewater to 0.27 mi ESE of Bridgewater
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: State Official
Coordinates: 40.700, -80.290

A 911 Call Center reported that the 500 block of Delaware Avenue was flooded. A vehicle was stuck but managed to escape.

Flash Flood, Beaver

When: May 28, 5:24 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Beaver County, 1.57 mi E of Unionville to 2.05 mi ESE of Unionville
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.750, -80.190

A 911 Call Center reported Blackwoods Road, Fezell Rd, Sterele School Rd, and Rochester Run Rd in New Sewickley Towsnship flooded.

Flash Flood, Beaver

When: May 28, 5:30 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Beaver County, Koppel to 0.29 mi W of Koppel
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.830, -80.320

A 911 Call Center reported flooding at Koppel-New Sewickley Bridge. Peachtree Road in Marion Twp was closed due to flooding.

Flash Flood, Allegheny

When: May 28, 5:32 PM EST to 8:30 PM EST
Where: Allegheny County, 0.87 mi SW of Natrona to 0.28 mi WNW of Brackenridge
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $5,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.610, -79.740

A 911 Call Center reported that the 1000 Block of Roupe Avenue was flooded. Rain also caused manhole covers to dislodge, as well as basement flooding.

Hail, Indiana

When: May 28, 5:48 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, 0.53 mi E of Grafton
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.480, -79.210

A trained spotter reported 1 inch diameter hail.

Flash Flood, Lawrence

When: May 28, 6:01 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Lawrence County, 2.07 mi S of Ellwood City to 2.03 mi S of Ellwood City
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Crop damage: $5,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.840, -80.274

A 911 Call Center reported flooded along Mercer Road at Verna Way. The road was not passable.

Flash Flood, Butler

When: May 28, 6:10 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.87 mi SW of Zelienople to 0.95 mi SSW of Eidenau
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $5.0 million
Crop damage: $100,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.790, -80.140

Local citizens reported severe flooding near Main Street in Zelienople as well as basement flooding.

Flash Flood, Armstrong

When: May 28, 6:18 PM EST to 8:30 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.88 mi NNW of Leechburg to 1.02 mi NW of Leechburg
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.641, -79.608

A local 911 Call Center reported State Route 66 and Icepond Rd are closed due to flooding.

Flash Flood, Armstrong

When: May 28, 6:19 PM EST to 8:30 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.85 mi SE of Apollo to 0.66 mi S of Orchard Hills
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.572, -79.558

A 911 Call Center reported that Cherry Lane Rd closed due to flooding.

Flash Flood, Butler

When: May 28, 6:22 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Butler County, 0.93 mi E of Eidenau to 0.48 mi SE of Eidenau
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.798, -80.102

A NWS Employee reported flooding along Evans City Road. Basement flooding was also noted.

Flash Flood, Indiana

When: May 28, 6:23 PM EST to 8:30 PM EST
Where: Indiana County, Strangford to 0.76 mi SE of Strangford
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.430, -79.220

A 911 Call Center reported State Route 119 reported being flooded in Burrell and Blacklick Townships.

Flash Flood, Lawrence

When: May 28, 6:30 PM EST to 9:00 PM EST
Where: Lawrence County, 0.52 mi E of Edinburg to 0.75 mi SE of Edinburg
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $10,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 41.020, -80.440

A citizen reported flooding along Highway 224.

Flash Flood, Westmoreland

When: May 28, 6:30 PM EST to 8:30 PM EST
Where: Westmoreland County, 1.26 mi WSW of Vandergrift to 0.92 mi SW of Vandergrift
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.590, -79.600

A local 911 Call Center reported flooding at the intersection of Route 66 and Route 819 near Edgewood Washington Township.

Flash Flood, Westmoreland

When: May 28, 6:30 PM EST to 8:30 PM EST
Where: Westmoreland County, 1.26 mi WSW of Vandergrift to 0.92 mi SW of Vandergrift
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 40.590, -79.600

A local 911 Call Center reported flooding at the intersection of Route 66 and Route 819 near Edgewood Washington Township.

Heavy Rain, Armstrong

When: May 28, 6:47 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.52 mi W of Schenley
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.680, -79.680

A NWS Employee reported 2.30 inches of rain in a 24 hour period.

Flash Flood, Armstrong

When: May 28, 6:54 PM EST to 8:30 PM EST
Where: Armstrong County, 0.69 mi N of Dock Hollow to 1.77 mi W of Dock Hollow
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.710, -79.670

A NWS Employee reported flooding near the intersection of Striker Road and Highway 128 north of Freeport.

Flash Flood, Butler

When: May 28, 7:34 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST
Where: Butler County, Sarver to 1.5 mi N of Saverville
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $5,000
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.730, -79.730

A NWS Employee reported flooding near Little Buffalo Creek.

Hail, Westmoreland

When: May 28, 9:11 PM EST
Where: Westmoreland County, Millwood
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.350, -79.280

A citizen reported hail a quarter in size.

Hail, Allegheny

When: May 28, 9:15 PM EST
Where: Allegheny County, 1.26 mi ENE of Option
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.440, -79.960

A citizen reported hail had damaged cars and activated the car alarms.

Heavy Rain, Butler

When: May 28, 9:56 PM EST
Where: Butler County, Sarver
Crop damage: $1,000
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.730, -79.730

A CoCoRaHS observer reported 4.65 inches of rain for the day. Streams and creeks were reported out of their banks.

What these are

Hail: Hail three-quarters of an inch or larger, or smaller hail that caused damage, filed with the largest stone measured.
Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
Tornado: A violently rotating column of air in contact with the ground and extending from a thunderstorm, filed with its path, width and Fujita or Enhanced Fujita rating from the damage survey.
Flash Flood: Flooding that begins within six hours of the rain that causes it, or of a dam or levee failure or ice jam release, often with deadly speed.
Heavy Rain: Rainfall totals unusual for the place and season that did not produce a flood.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Pennsylvania in 2019 Every state in 2019 This day in weather history The tornado archive for Pennsylvania, 2019 Warnings in Pennsylvania, May 2019

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 824870, 824867, 824884, 824854, 824864, 824853, 824863, 824887, 824851, 824861, 824859, 824929, 824856, 824918, 824855, 824872, 824873, 824943, 824944, 824945, 824946, 824948, 824949, 824958, 824879, 824960, 824966, 824967, 824968, 824875, 824876, 824977, 825011, 824878, 824978, 824961, 824919, 824969, 824888, 824880, and more.