More rain possible in Philly later today, but 'the big storms are gone'

The worst is over.

After strong thunderstorms caused havoc around the Philadelphia region this morning, forecasters say the area can expect a much-less-chaotic afternoon and evening.

More rain is still possible around the region today, but "the big storms are gone," said Walter Drag, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service's Mount Holly office.

"It should be a much easier commute home," he said.

Lingering flooding remains the biggest concern for the rest of the day. This morning, as much as 6.5 inches of rain fell in some areas, as flooded roadways stranded motorists and prompted dozens of rescue calls around the suburbs.

Though the heaviest rain has moved away from the Philadelphia area, the weather service says a flood warning will remain in effect until 8:15 p.m. because some streams remain above flood stage.

A flood warning remains in effect through tonight for Brandywine Creek at Chadds Ford, according to the weather service. A warning for East Branch Brandywine Creek near Downingtown was canceled shortly after 5 p.m.

Drag said forecasters expect high waters in most streams to subside by the evening commute.

"Considerable recessions will be occurring in the late afternoon for small streams," he said.

But Drag said roads near creeks that flooded this morning could still be covered in water.

At mid-afternoon, authorities were still reporting road closures in the region due to flooding, including a section of Lincoln Drive in Philadelphia, along the Wissahickon Creek.

The rest of the day is expected to be mostly cloudy, with a high temperature of 82 degrees.

The clouds should be clearing tonight, Drag said, with "beautiful weather" on tap for the next several days.

Forecasters are calling for sunny skies Wednesday through Saturday, with high temperatures of 79 degrees on Wednesday, 80 degrees Thursday, and 82 degrees Friday and Saturday. Lower humidity is also expected for the next several days.