NORTH CENTRAL PA – The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a weather alert on Sunday afternoon for heavy snow affecting multiple counties in north-central Pennsylvania, warning drivers of rapidly changing visibility and slick roads.
The alert, issued at 3:30 p.m., was set to remain in effect until 4:15 p.m., covering Northern Centre, Southern Centre, Southern Clinton, Clearfield, and Mifflin counties.
“At 3:29 p.m., a band of heavy snow was located along a line extending from 10 miles southwest of Lock Haven to near Bellefonte to near Clearfield,” the NWS reported. “Visibility may be rapidly reduced to below one mile. Movement was southeast at 35 mph.”
Travel Impact Across Major Communities
The snow band moved quickly across central Pennsylvania, impacting several communities including State College, Bellefonte, Pleasant Gap, Clearfield, and Park Forest Village. Forecasters warned that driving conditions could become hazardous within minutes as snow accumulated on roadways and reduced visibility.
Other affected locations included Boalsburg, Zion, Lemont, Milroy, Centre Hall, Milesburg, Snow Shoe, Aaronsburg, and Port Matilda, according to the alert.
Motorists were urged to exercise extreme caution, especially on highways such as I-80 and Route 322, where snow showers and cold pavement could lead to quick ice formation.
Early Winter Hazard for Central Pennsylvania
This burst of snow marks an early sign of winter weather patterns returning to the region. While totals are expected to remain modest, the intensity of the snowfall and its sudden onset made travel especially risky during the evening hours.
Weather officials reminded drivers that visibility can drop to less than a mile in heavy snow bands, and even minor accumulations can lead to dangerous conditions.
“Be prepared for hazardous driving conditions,” the NWS advised. “Consider delaying travel if you will be going through this band of heavy snow.”
Safety Recommendations for Drivers
The National Weather Service recommends motorists follow these precautions during fast-moving snow squalls:
- Reduce speed and maintain extra distance between vehicles.
- Avoid sudden braking and use low-beam headlights to improve visibility.
- Delay non-essential travel until snow bands pass.
- Stay alert for icy patches on bridges and shaded roadways.
As the snow band continues to track southeast through the evening, temperatures are expected to drop further, increasing the potential for slick conditions overnight.
For continuous updates on local weather advisories and traffic alerts, stay tuned to HonkNews.com for verified coverage and safety information across Pennsylvania.