Up to 3 Inches of Rain Possible as Flood Watch Issued for Schuylkill County

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Schuylkill County and portions of central Pennsylvania as heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding Thursday afternoon and evening.
The Flood Watch remains in effect until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 20, 2026.

According to the National Weather Service, periods of heavy rain are expected to move through the region during the afternoon and evening hours, with rainfall amounts of up to 3 inches possible in some locations.

The heavy rainfall could produce excessive runoff and flooding along rivers, creeks and streams, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Creeks and streams could also rise out of their banks.

Poor drainage and urban areas could also experience flooding if heavy rain falls over a short period of time.

In addition to Schuylkill County, the Flood Watch includes Columbia, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, Sullivan, Union and York counties, along with portions of Clinton and Lycoming counties.

Motorists should never attempt to drive through a flooded roadway. Water covering a road may be deeper or moving faster than it appears, and the roadway underneath could be damaged or washed away.

The Flood Watch means conditions are favorable for flooding to occur.