Winter Storm Warning Issued for Pittsburgh Region: What You Need to Know
As winter weather sweeps through the Pittsburgh area, the National Weather Service has officially declared a Winter Storm Warning for several counties situated south of Allegheny County. A Winter Weather Advisory is also in effect for Allegheny County and neighboring northern areas, signaling residents to prepare for severe winter conditions.
Heavy Snow Expected This Weekend
The warning came into effect at 1 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, and meteorologists predict that the Pittsburgh region, particularly south of I-70, will experience significant snowfall over the weekend. According to forecasts from the National Weather Service, a band of heavier snow is anticipated, leading to total accumulations of approximately 3-5 inches in Pittsburgh itself, with higher elevations expecting between 5-10 inches.
By Friday evening, it was clear that nearly all areas of Pittsburgh could expect to see between two and four inches of snow, which could create challenging conditions for travel and daily activities.
Cold Air Follows the Snow
As the weekend progresses, particularly around midnight on Sunday morning, the snowfall is expected to taper off. However, residents should be prepared for a significant drop in temperatures. Following the snow, cold air will move in, leading to frigid lows in the single digits. Wind chill factors may push perceived temperatures below zero, exacerbated by wind gusts between 15-20 mph. It’s crucial for everyone to be mindful of these conditions as they can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
Winter Preparations in Full Swing
In anticipation of the winter storm, road crews across western Pennsylvania are taking proactive measures to ensure road safety. Officials have mobilized resources to address the impending snowfall effectively. In particular, Allegheny County has deployed approximately two dozen plow trucks equipped with more than 9,000 tons of salt on standby to tackle icy roads.
Despite these preparations, transportation officials are urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. This will allow crews to clear snow more efficiently, contributing to better road conditions for those who must drive.
For further information on road conditions and updates on the storm, you can visit PennDOT.
Final Thoughts
As winter’s grip tightens over the Pittsburgh area, it’s essential to remain informed and prepared. Ensure that you have provisions in place to stay warm and safe. Paying attention to updates from reliable sources like the National Weather Service will help you navigate any challenges posed by this winter storm. Stay warm and be safe!
