PENNSYLVANIA — Northern Pennsylvania is bracing for a round of accumulating snow on Wednesday, with several National Weather Service (NWS) offices warning that travel could be hazardous throughout the morning and evening commutes.
Advisories are now posted for much of the region, with snowfall totals ranging from 2 to 6 inches depending on location and elevation.
3–6 Inches Forecast in Northwestern and North-Central Counties
The NWS in State College reports that Warren, McKean, Potter, Elk, Cameron, Clearfield, Northern Centre, and Northern Clinton counties can expect 3 to 6 inches of snow beginning early Wednesday morning. Cities affected include Clearfield, DuBois, St. Marys, Emporium, Bradford, Renovo, Coudersport and Warren.
Snow may fall heavily at times in the morning, and southwest winds may gust up to 35 mph, causing blowing and reduced visibility. The advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m.
2–5 Inches Expected in Tioga, Northern Lycoming, and Sullivan Counties
Another advisory is posted for Tioga, Northern Lycoming and Sullivan counties, including Wellsboro, Mansfield, Trout Run, and Laporte.
Snow is forecast to intensify late Wednesday morning into the afternoon. Most locations are expected to receive 2 to 5 inches, though higher elevations in eastern Lycoming and Sullivan counties may see up to 6 inches. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.
Western Pennsylvania Communities Facing Slippery Roads
In western Pennsylvania, the NWS Pittsburgh office says 2 to 4 inches of snow will fall across Mercer, Venango, Forest, Clarion and Jefferson counties.
Local totals up to 5 inches are possible in some spots. Areas affected include Sharon, Hermitage, Grove City, Oil City, Franklin, Tionesta, Clarion, Brookville and Punxsutawney. The advisory runs from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday.
Crawford and Southern Erie Counties Could See Mixed Precipitation
Farther north, Crawford and southern Erie counties—including Meadville, Titusville, Edinboro, Union City and Corry—are expected to receive 3 to 5 inches of snow. A brief mix with freezing rain may occur before snow becomes steady overnight.
The heaviest snow is likely before and during the Wednesday morning commute. Blowing snow from winds up to 35 mph may make travel even more difficult.
Forecasters warn that additional snow may arrive Wednesday night into Thursday from lake effect bands, and advisories may be extended if accumulations increase.
Travel Conditions Expected to Be Hazardous
Roads could quickly become snow-covered and slick across the advisory areas. Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and check road updates before leaving home. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation asks motorists to avoid unnecessary travel and follow any restrictions.
Travelers can monitor conditions at 511pa.com, or call 511 for statewide road reports.
Weather updates are available at weather.gov/StateCollege and weather.gov/pittsburgh.
