PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Western Pennsylvania woke up to a blanket of snow Sunday morning after a powerful winter storm swept through the region, bringing heavy accumulation, freezing temperatures, and dangerous driving conditions.
Winter Storm Warning in Effect
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Winter Storm Warning for counties south of Allegheny County beginning Saturday afternoon, while a Winter Weather Advisory was placed for Allegheny County and areas farther north.
According to NWS forecasts, snowfall totals ranged from 3–5 inches across Pittsburgh and up to 5–10 inches in the ridges south of the city. Areas along and south of Interstate 70 were hit hardest by the heaviest snow bands.
Frigid Temperatures and Blowing Snow
While snow tapered off by early Sunday, temperatures dropped sharply overnight, leaving morning lows in the single digits and wind chills below zero. Gusts of 15–20 mph added to the bitter cold, creating patches of blowing and drifting snow that further reduced visibility.
Officials warned that icy roads and sidewalks could persist through Sunday night and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
Road Crews and Residents Battle the Snow
Local and state road crews were out in full force preparing for the storm, with Allegheny County deploying more than two dozen trucks and 9,000 tons of salt to keep main roadways clear.
Despite these efforts, many secondary and residential roads remained snow-covered by morning. In Washington County, main routes began clearing by sunrise, but back roads in Nottingham Township, Peters Township, and North and South Strabane stayed frozen and treacherous.
Residents across the South Hills and North Strabane spent Sunday morning digging out.
“I take it all in stride,” said Rodney Hayes, who was out early shoveling in North Strabane. “We can’t enjoy the summer if we don’t have the cold.”
Others, like Doug Ecelberger, reminded drivers to take it slow on icy roads. “You can probably go, but you aren’t going to stop,” he said while navigating Curry Hollow Road in his four-wheel-drive pickup.
Stay Cautious and Weather-Aware
Officials continue to urge residents to limit travel, dress warmly, and watch for slippery conditions when walking or driving. Even minor slips can result in injuries, local health officials warned.
As crews continue clearing snow and salting roadways, temperatures are expected to remain frigid into Monday before a gradual warm-up midweek.
Stay tuned to HonkNews.com for continuing updates on western Pennsylvania’s winter weather and road conditions.