PENNSYLVANIA — A series of lake-effect snow warnings and winter weather advisories remain in effect across much of northwestern and north-central Pennsylvania through 1 p.m. Monday, as heavy snow bands and strong winds are expected to create hazardous travel conditions.
The National Weather Service reports that Forest County is under a Lake Effect Snow Warning, with total snow accumulations between 3 and 10 inches expected. Winds could gust up to 40 mph, leading to difficult travel and hazardous conditions for Monday morning commuters.
Additional lake-effect snow warnings remain in place for Elk, McKean and Warren Counties, where 5 to 8 inches of snow are forecast, along with wind gusts reaching 50 mph.
Officials warn that visibility may drop below a quarter-mile in heavier bands and that falling snow combined with strong winds could down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. Road crews are expected to struggle with blowing and drifting snow.
A Winter Weather Advisory covers Jefferson, Venango and Clarion Counties, where up to 4 inches of snow is expected through Monday afternoon. Winds of up to 40 mph may contribute to slippery roads, particularly during the early commute. The National Weather Service noted that the advisory could be upgraded if a more organized snow band develops.
In northwestern Pennsylvania, Crawford and southern Erie Counties are also under a Winter Weather Advisory, with as much as 6 inches possible in higher elevations. Snowfall is expected to be heaviest overnight into early Monday, with strong winds up to 35 mph contributing to difficult travel.
Across the New York border, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties remain under a Winter Weather Advisory as well. Between 4 and 7 inches are forecast in higher terrain areas inland from Lake Erie. Wind gusts up to 45 mph may create blowing and drifting snow, while areas closer to the lake—including the New York State Thruway corridor—are expected to see little accumulation.
Further south, Clearfield County, along with Cameron and Potter Counties, are also under winter weather advisories. Clearfield may see up to 3 inches of snow, while Potter and Cameron Counties could receive 2 to 5 inches, with strong wind gusts up to 50 mph posing an additional hazard. Forecasters say conditions will vary significantly as narrow snow bands shift across the region.
Officials urge drivers to delay travel if possible. Those who must be on the roads should use extreme caution and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, reduced visibility, and snow-covered pavement. The NWS recommends carrying emergency supplies such as flashlights, blankets, food, water, and winter car kits.
Up-to-date road conditions are available by calling 511.
