Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Wednesday, November 27, 2024.

We're starting with breaking news: a tornado touched down in a Pittsburgh neighborhood yesterday, confirmed by the National Weather Service. The storm also brought heavy rain and wind, knocking down trees and utility lines, and causing power outages for thousands[2]. We urge everyone to stay safe and follow updates from local authorities.

In other news, the Pennsylvania Turnpike is expecting nearly 700,000 vehicles on the road today, making it the busiest day ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. The Turnpike Commission has suspended roadwork through Sunday night to ensure smooth travel. If you're planning to travel, consider leaving before 10 a.m. to avoid the worst traffic[4].

Moving to our job market snapshot, there haven't been any major hiring announcements or significant layoffs reported recently. However, the city is focusing on recruiting and training for Pittsburgh EMS to address staffing shortages.

In real estate, the first Von Maur department store in Pennsylvania has opened at South Hills Village. For those interested in local properties, there are several sheriff's sales listed, including a single-family dwelling at 905 Ross Avenue in Wilkinsburg and another at 1203 Montier Street[5].

From City Hall, the budget is under scrutiny, with Allegheny County Council indicating it will not pass the budget as proposed. Mayor Ed Gainey's administration has also pitched a comprehensive zoning reform bill, which was discussed in a public hearing yesterday. The proposal includes changes that have divided residents and city leaders[2].

Weather-wise, the impactful snow is expected to take over late Thursday night and Friday morning. PennDOT is advising people to avoid unnecessary travel and be cautious as the storm approaches.

In new business activity, a bakery in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill neighborhood and a pizzeria in Oakland were hit with consumer alerts. On a positive note, an eatery in Pittsburgh has been named among the 100 best in America for 2024 by OpenTable.

For upcoming community events, the Africanism Gala is a highlight, celebrating beauty, music, culture, and community spirit. Also, check out the PTL Weekend Guide for more exciting activities around town.

In local school achievements, Penn State is off to its best start in five seasons after beating Purdue Fort Wayne 102-89[2]. And in a feel-good community story, Barrett Elementary is supporting the KDKA-TV Turkey Fund with creativity and enthusiasm.

In today's crime report, a man has been charged with attempted homicide and aggravated assault after a shooting in the Strip District. The suspect claimed he heard his girlfriend calling for help before shooting and critically injuring another man[3]. Additionally, a former Westmoreland County employee was charged with theft after ordering unauthorized pay increases.

This has been Pittsburgh Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.