As a cold front comes through the region, gusting winds are forecast to hit western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia from Thursday afternoon to early Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, rising wind speeds will emerge Thursday afternoon, along with increased rain possibilities. Wind gusts of 25 to 35 mph are expected in most areas, with isolated gusts of 40 mph. The greatest winds are forecast around lunchtime on Friday.
Forecasters predict even greater conditions in eastern Tucker County, West Virginia, with wind gusts of up to 55 mph, prompting the issue of a Wind Advisory.
Pittsburgh, Butler, Washington, Wheeling, Morgantown, DuBois, Zanesville, and other cities and localities in the tri-state area may be affected. The highest gusts are forecast late Thursday night into Friday morning, with a gradual decrease Friday evening.
The strong gusts may blow about unsecured outdoor items such as garbage cans, holiday decorations, and lightweight furniture. Drivers of high-profile vehicles, particularly on bridges and open highways, may face difficult travel conditions.
While major power outages are unlikely, isolated outages are conceivable if strong winds knock down tree limbs or stress vulnerable power lines, especially during rainy weather.
Residents are advised to secure unsecured outdoor goods, drive with caution, and check local forecasts as circumstances change. As the system exits the region, wind speeds are predicted to drop as early as Saturday morning.
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