PITTSBURGH - Winter has tightened its grip on Pittsburgh as the region braces for what meteorologists are calling an unprecedented winter storm. With the temperatures dropping to dangerously low levels and snow accumulation estimates soaring, residents are advised to stay informed and take precautions.
On Saturday, Western Pennsylvania faced residual effects from Friday's snow squalls. Areas like Cranberry Township received about 5 inches of snow, with New Castle recording slightly over 4 inches. The National Weather Service predicts snow showers to continue throughout Saturday, affecting Pittsburgh and surrounding counties to the north and east. According to local forecasts, lake effect snow showers will begin to taper off as Sunday approaches, offering only brief glimpses of sunlight under low teen temperatures.
A winter storm advisory is set to take effect for Greene, Fayette, eastern Westmoreland, Somerset, Monongalia, Preston, and Garrett counties, beginning Sunday at 1 p.m. and lasting until 7 p.m. on Monday. Areas north of Pittsburgh are also under winter weather advisories. Snow is expected to commence around midnight on Monday along the Interstate 68 to 70 corridors, spreading northeast through the early morning.
Predictions indicate snowfall totals will vary across different regions. Areas south of I-70, particularly near the West Virginia border, could see accumulations of 6 to 9 inches, whereas Pittsburgh and the surrounding regions are forecasted to receive between 3 to 6 inches. The impact of the incoming storm hinges on the storm track, which determines the rain-snow line, and it's possible we will experience different amounts of accumulation depending on local temperatures.
The complexity of the storm system has puzzled forecasters, with varied computer models predicting different outcomes. The National Weather Service highlighted the importance of the storm's track, stating, "The storm's track is very important; it will determine who sees snow or other wintry precipitation and how much." With this level of uncertainty, residents are being advised to prepare for the worst, particularly those living outside of the immediate Pittsburgh area, who might face unfavorable conditions.
Travel conditions could become significantly hazardous by Monday morning, especially along Route 40 and Interstate 68. Early predictions suggest most snowfall will occur before noon on Monday, leading to what could be treacherous travel conditions. Additional scattered snow showers are expected to sweep through Pittsburgh from Monday afternoon through early Tuesday as the storm continues to impact the region.
The cold snap accompanying this storm is expected to linger, with temperatures forecasted to stay well below normal for the upcoming week. Meteorologists predict highs across the area will only reach the 20s, with nighttime lows dropping to the single digits. Despite the frigid air, the local weather experts noted, there are no major snow chances beyond this current storm, until perhaps next Saturday.
One thing is for certain: Pittsburghers should expect their routine disrupted by winter’s powerful return. Residents have been cautioned to prepare for potentially severe winter weather impacts as forecasts remain dynamic and continually updated. Seriously considering vehicle and home preparedness is key as local municipalities gear up for what is shaping to be one of the year's most significant winter events.
Stay tuned to local weather updates to navigate these challenging conditions and understand the best times to travel or stay put this season.