Northeast, mid-atlantic braced for severe weather, wildfire smoke

More than 50 million people in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic are at risk for severe weather this weekend as Canadian wildfire smoke continues to impact air quality.

Severe weather threat unfolds

A severe weather threat is in effect from the Ohio Valley through the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, with damaging winds, large hail, isolated tornadoes and flash flooding possible. Residents of major cities including New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Pittsburgh, and Cleveland should prepare for the intense storms.

The National Weather Service warns that Northeast residents face the potential for scattered flash flooding from Washington D.C. to Boston, with rounds of storms expected ahead of a cold front moving into the region. Urban areas with high runoff will be the most susceptible to flash flooding.

New York City has issued a flood watch as the city braces for thunderstorms and high wind gusts. The city's skyline was shrouded in a thick orange haze this week due to smoke from massive Canadian wildfires.

World cup fans may face improved air conditions

Conditions are expected to improve in the East as the cold front moves through, potentially providing better air quality for the World Cup final in Qatar this Sunday. However, MLS analyst and former pro soccer player Sacha Kljestan told CBS News that if the rain doesn't clear the air, the poor conditions could slow the game down.

Meanwhile, in Texas, recovery efforts are ongoing after deadly flooding last week. The Texas National Guard has taken to the skies for rescues and medical transports due to impassable roads.