Severe storms and wildfire smoke threaten 50 million in Northeast, Mid-Atlantic

More than 50 million people across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic face a severe weather threat this weekend that includes damaging winds, large hail, isolated tornadoes and flash flooding. The National Weather Service said scattered flash flooding is possible from Washington, D.C., to Boston as storms develop ahead of an approaching cold front.

Urban areas with high runoff face the greatest risk. New York City has a flood watch in effect while Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Cleveland are also under threat.

Air quality Heavy smoke from wildfires in Canada and Minnesota has covered large parts of the Midwest and Northeast this week, exposing millions to hazardous air-pollution levels. The smoke has affected at least 19 states and reduced visibility in New York City, where an orange haze was visible over the skyline.

Conditions are expected to improve in the East once the cold front passes. Tens of thousands of fans attending the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina on Sunday could see clearer air.

Texas recovery Further south, recovery efforts continue in central Texas after several days of heavy rain that produced two feet of precipitation in some areas. Roads remain impassable in places, prompting the Texas National Guard to conduct aerial rescues and medical transports. Some rivers are still running high.