Severe Thunderstorm Warning in York County (July 25, 2025)
As of Thursday, July 25, 2025, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for York County, with threats of damaging winds, hail, and heavy rainfall. The alert is in effect until 9:00 PM EDT, and residents are urged to take precautions immediately.
What’s Happening?
A powerful thunderstorm system is moving across southern Pennsylvania, impacting York County with strong gusts reaching up to 60 mph. The storm front is also producing quarter-sized hail and torrential downpours, which may lead to localized flooding and power outages.
According to the NWS, radar indicated rotation in parts of the storm, raising concern for possible tornado development, although no tornado warning has been issued yet.
Areas Affected
The warning includes—but is not limited to—the following towns and cities in York County, PA:
- York
- Red Lion
- Dallastown
- Hanover
- Shrewsbury
- Dover
- Wrightsville
Nearby counties such as Lancaster, Adams, and Cumberland are also under weather advisories or watches.
Real-Time Alerts & Updates
- NWS Weather Alert System: weather.gov/alerts
- York County Emergency Management: yorkcountypa.gov
- Local Radar: Use apps like MyRadar, AccuWeather, or Weather Channel for street-level storm tracking.
Safety Tips During a Severe Thunderstorm
- Stay Indoors: Seek shelter immediately. Avoid windows and unplug electronics.
- Avoid Driving: If on the road, safely pull over and wait for the storm to pass.
- Watch for Flooding: Do not drive or walk through flooded roads (“Turn Around, Don’t Drown”).
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in patio furniture, trash bins, and anything that can become wind-borne debris.
- Charge Devices: Prepare for potential outages by charging your phone, power banks, and essential electronics.
Why This Storm Is Different
Meteorologists from Penn State Weather Center are calling this system one of the most intense mid-summer events of the season. Unlike typical pop-up summer storms, this front is part of a larger low-pressure system forming across the Appalachian region and drawing in tropical moisture—intensifying the risk of flash floods and wind damage.
What to Expect Next
- Possible Extension of the Warning: If the storm slows or strengthens, the warning may be extended or upgraded.
- Cleanup and Damage Reports: York County will assess damage Friday morning; downed trees and power lines are expected.
- School & Transit Updates: Monitor York County School District and Rabbit Transit for closures or delays.
Emergency Contacts
- Report Power Outages: Met-Ed (1-888-544-4877)
- Emergency Services: 911 for life-threatening emergencies
- York County Emergency Hotline: (717) 840-2990
Final Thoughts
Severe thunderstorms are not just routine summer events—they can escalate into life-threatening emergencies. Stay alert, stay informed, and above all, stay safe. For the latest updates, follow local news outlets and official alerts from the National Weather Service.
