PITTSBURGH, PA — Severe storms swept through the Pittsburgh area on Tuesday evening, April 29, 2025, causing widespread power outages and significant damage across Western Pennsylvania. The National Weather Service had previously issued an Enhanced Risk, or Level 3 out of 5, for severe storms, forecasting damaging winds, large hail, and even isolated tornadoes.
As the storms intensified, wind gusts reached up to 71.3 mph at the Pittsburgh airport, marking the third strongest gust ever recorded there. Just before 9 p.m., Duquesne Light reported that over 100,000 customers were without power, while First Energy indicated that more than 270,000 customers across Pennsylvania were also in the dark. At one point, the total number of homes without electricity exceeded 400,000.
Duquesne Light had ramped up staffing in anticipation of the severe weather, stating that they would respond to outages as quickly and safely as possible. However, the company cautioned that the severity of the weather and extensive damage would likely delay assessments and estimated restoration times. In a statement shared on social media, Duquesne Light said, "The severity of the weather and extensive nature of damage will likely delay assessments and estimated restoration times."
As residents began to assess the damage, reports of downed trees and damaged structures poured in from various neighborhoods. On Pittsburgh's South Side, parts of a roof were scattered across the intersection of East Carson Street and the Birmingham Bridge. In Millvale, a building on East Ohio Street suffered significant roof damage, while Fiori's, a beloved pizza shop on West Liberty Avenue, lost its roof entirely.
In Robinson Township, trees fell on homes, causing serious damage. The chaos was so pronounced that officials from Pittsburgh Public Safety reported a tragic incident where a man died after being electrocuted by live wires during the storm. "Public Safety is urging residents to use extreme caution as there are multiple hazards throughout the city due to the storm," they stated.
The storms also disrupted emergency services, with Pittsburgh's 911 system experiencing outages. Officials advised residents to contact their local police zone if they encountered any emergencies and were unable to reach 911. This added layer of difficulty amidst the chaos left many residents feeling vulnerable.
In a further blow to local events, the Oakmont Country Club, which is set to host the U.S. Open in June 2025, reported damage to its setup due to the storms. Tents that had been erected for the prestigious golf event were either damaged or blown away, although the full extent of the destruction was still being assessed.
As the storms raged on, a Thunderstorm Watch remained in effect until 10 p.m. across all of Western Pennsylvania, prompting residents to stay alert and prepared for further developments. Video footage captured in Monroeville showed the moment a driver had to swerve to avoid a tree crashing onto the road, underscoring the dangerous conditions that prevailed throughout the area.
With many still grappling with the aftermath of the storms, Duquesne Light outlined their restoration priorities: public safety hazards, public health and safety facilities, major circuits, and finally, small neighborhoods and individual homes. The company urged residents to report any downed wires or hazardous situations to their emergency number at 888-393-7000.
In light of the severe weather, local officials and emergency services are working diligently to restore power and ensure public safety. Residents are advised to remain cautious and report any emergencies promptly. As the situation continues to develop, updates will be provided to keep the community informed.
