Storms to bring several inches of rain to Pa.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Much of Pennsylvania is under a flood watch as storms that could bring several inches of rain move up the coast.

The National Weather Service says up to six inches of rain is possible in Philadelphia by the time storms leave the area on Friday. Forecasters say the storms that began arriving early today will also bring gusty winds. Rainfall amounts between 2 and 5 inches will be common.

Flood watches are in effect through Friday afternoon in southeastern Pennsylvania. National Weather Service meteorologists say the storms could dump a half to three-quarters of an inch of rain in a short time.

Up to 1 1/2 inches of rain is expected in western Pennsylvania, where flood watches are in effect through this evening.