Winter Storm Hits Pennsylvania as Erie Braces for Feet of Snow
As central Pennsylvania experiences chilly but clear weather, parts of western Pennsylvania are grappling with a significant lake-effect snowstorm. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning for Erie and Crawford counties, forecasting over 4 feet of snow accumulation by the weekend’s end. According to NWS, the region could see snowfall intensifying at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, potentially reaching nearly 30 inches by Saturday morning.
The lake-effect snowstorm has already impacted travel, following the disruptive Black Friday snow that closed major highways, grounded public transportation, and affected the region’s post-holiday events. Authorities are urging travelers to postpone their trips to the area due to quickly deteriorating road conditions caused by heavy snowfall. For those who must travel, the NWS recommends preparing a winter storm kit, including tire chains, booster cables, flashlights, shovels, blankets, and extra clothing.
Forecasts indicate that an additional 18 inches of snow could fall in northwestern Pennsylvania by Monday morning. Meanwhile, the southwestern region, including Pittsburgh, is expected to receive just a light dusting of snow, with up to half an inch predicted daily through Sunday. Mixed precipitation and further snowfall are anticipated throughout the following week.
Conditions are expected to improve from the mountains eastward to Philadelphia, where little to no snowfall is anticipated. However, temperatures across the region are set to remain below 40 degrees during the day and well below freezing at night, marking the coldest spell of the season thus far. Residents are urged to prepare for the winter weather as they navigate travel plans and outdoor activities this weekend.
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