Parts of Western Pennsylvania are under multiple Winter Weather and Wind Advisories as a potent winter system brings snow showers, strong winds, and dangerously cold temperatures through midweek. Forecasters warn that hazardous conditions will impact both the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes.
Winter Weather Advisory: Snow and Slippery Roads Expected
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from 1 p.m. Monday to 1 p.m. Tuesday for the following counties:
- Clarion
- Forest
- Venango
- Preston
- Garrett
- Higher elevations of Indiana, Westmoreland, Fayette, and Monongalia
Snowfall totals could reach up to five inches in areas affected by sustained lake-effect snow bands. Officials caution that slippery roads will make travel hazardous, especially during peak commute hours.
Wind Advisory: Gusty Winds May Damage Trees and Power Lines
A Wind Advisory remains in effect until 1 a.m. Tuesday for:
- Mercer
- Lawrence
- Butler
- Clarion
- Jefferson
- Beaver
- Allegheny
- Armstrong
- Washington
- Greene
- Higher elevations of Westmoreland, Fayette, and Indiana counties
Wind gusts may be strong enough to cause tree damage and isolated power outages, adding to travel risks as temperatures drop.
Snow Squall Warning Issued Late Monday Night
Late Monday evening, several counties were also placed under a Snow Squall Warning, including:
- Mercer
- Northeastern Lawrence
- Central Butler
- North-central Indiana
- Central Armstrong
These rapidly developing bursts of heavy snow were expected to continue through 11:15 p.m., causing sudden whiteout conditions and near-zero visibility.
Impact Days: Bitter Cold, Snow Showers, and Very Low Wind Chills
Western Pennsylvania will enter a deep freeze heading into 2026:
- Tuesday (Impact Day): Breezy with morning snow showers. High around 28°, low near 22°.
- Wednesday (New Year’s Eve – Impact Day): Snow showers early and late. High 31°, low 15°.
- Thursday (New Year’s Day): Cloudy and cold with afternoon snow showers. High 24°, low 14°.
Wind chills may drop into the single digits, especially during the morning hours.
New Year’s Forecast: More Snow Chances Ahead
Light snow showers are expected to develop late New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day, bringing the possibility of flakes falling during First Night celebrations. Cold air will persist through the first days of January, keeping highs at or below the freezing mark.
Summary
Western Pennsylvania faces disruptive winter weather as multiple advisories bring snow, strong winds, freezing temperatures, and hazardous travel conditions. Residents are urged to stay weather-aware, prepare for delays, and use caution on the roads through midweek. Stay informed with the latest winter weather alerts and local forecast updates at HonkNews.com.