Over 300,000 Without Power as Severe Storms Strike Pittsburgh Area

Severe storms struck the Pittsburgh area and western Pennsylvania on April 29, 2025, bringing powerful winds, heavy rain, and hail that caused widespread power outages and significant damage. Wind gusts reached up to 71.3 mph at Pittsburgh International Airport, the third strongest ever recorded there, and tornado warnings were issued as trees and power lines were brought down across the region. Over 230,000 customers in Allegheny and Beaver counties lost power, with FirstEnergy and Duquesne Light reporting outages affecting hundreds of thousands more statewide. The storms also disrupted emergency services, with Pittsburgh's 911 system experiencing outages and local authorities advising alternative contact methods for emergencies. Structural damage was reported, including tents set up for the upcoming 2025 US Open at Oakmont Country Club and scattered debris in various neighborhoods. Utility companies are still assessing the damage, warning that restoration efforts may be delayed due to the extent of the destruction.