Drivers in western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia may encounter quickly deteriorating road conditions Wednesday evening as a harder round of snow sweeps in, with the worst accumulations expected from tonight into early Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service office in Pittsburgh, snowfall will continue Wednesday afternoon, with the most extreme conditions forecast Wednesday night. A Winter Weather Advisory is in force for areas east of Interstate 77, where 3 to 6 inches of snow are probable, while a Winter Storm Warning applies to higher terrain in southwestern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia, where totals could reach 4 to 8 inches.
The ridges, which include sections of Fayette, Westmoreland, Somerset, Preston, and Tucker counties, have the highest probability of receiving significant snowfall. Snow bands or brief squalls could increase localized totals while significantly reducing visibility. Pittsburgh and its surrounding communities, including Butler, Indiana, and Latrobe, may receive several inches, with slick secondary roads developing fast after dusk.
PennDOT and local emergency managers recommend travelers to avoid unnecessary travel Wednesday night, particularly on ridge routes and untreated roads. Residents should leave extra time for the Thursday morning commute, charge their mobile devices, and be prepared for shifting weather conditions.
Snow is expected to taper off from west to east early Thursday, although treacherous patches will remain. Additional advisories may be issued as snow bands evolve, with warnings continuing in effect until Thursday morning.
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