Severe storms sweep through Philly region

A line of strong thunderstorms plowed through the region during the peak commuting period Friday, causing delays for air travelers and power outages for several thousand residents.

There were reports of uprooted trees from a combination of high winds and drenching rain. The region was under a tornado watch and flood advisory until about 9 p.m.

Service on SEPTA’s Paoli-Thorndale Line was knocked out “until further notice,” SEPTA reported, because of weather-related problems that affected Amtrak, which shares the line.

A gust of 47 mph was recorded at Philadelphia International Airport about 5:30, and one of 60 mph was reported in Salem County, N.J., along with thunderstorm damage.

The airport reported that flights were delayed because of federal air-traffic restrictions across Northeastern United States prompted by the widespread storms.

The tornado watch, issued by the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Okla., was an indication that conditions were ripe for severe thunderstorms that could spawn twisters.

The storms were expected to move out of the area overnight, but would leave behind west winds with speeds of 18 to 21 mph and gusts of up to 34 mph on Saturday, according to the forecast. Morning clouds will give way to partly sunny skies with a high of 61 degrees.

Sunday looks to be mostly cloudy with a chance of showers and high of 67. There’s a chance of rain Monday through Thursday.