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Storm arrives in Lehigh Valley. How much rain to expect and when it will end

Shoppers walk past a decorated window along Main Street in Bethlehem as they seek shelter from the rain Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. (Amy Shortell/The Morning Call)
Shoppers walk past a decorated window along Main Street in Bethlehem as they seek shelter from the rain Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. (Amy Shortell/The Morning Call)
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Up to 3 inches of rain could fall through Thursday night in the Lehigh Valley as a strong storm makes its way through the region.

Rain started falling late Wednesday, and the storm is expected to strengthen Thursday afternoon before weakening later in the evening, according to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey.

Maximum wind gusts between 40 and 45 mph are also possible, and could lead to power outages and tree damage, forecasters said. The storm system could bring some isolated thunderstorms too, likely between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

In their updated weather briefing Thursday morning, forecasters said 2-3 inches of rain could fall in the Allentown area, with 3-4 inches possible north of the region, in the Poconos. The recent dry conditions should prevent major flooding, but flooding could still happen in urban areas or areas with poor drainage. Leaves clogging drains could also worsen any flooding, forecasters said.

Rain is expected to linger into Friday morning, however gusty winds will likely persist into Halloween night as children across the Lehigh Valley head out for trick-or-treat.

The storm is bringing much-needed rain to the Lehigh Valley, which has had below normal rain the past few months. Most of the region has moderate drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

The next few days should be clear with highs in the 50s. Here is the extended forecast from the National Weather Service:

Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 56. Breezy, with a west wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph.

Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. West wind 10 to 15 mph.

Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 57.

Monday: Sunny, with a high near 61.

Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 59.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 57.

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