Somerset, PA – Residents across the Laurel Highlands are facing a life-threatening combination of heavy snow and extreme cold as a powerful Arctic front prepares to slam the region Friday through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for Cambria and Somerset counties, where near-blizzard conditions could make travel treacherous or impossible by Friday afternoon. Total snow accumulations are expected to range between 2 and 4 inches, though higher elevations and summits may see up to 6 inches of fresh powder. Wind gusts reaching 50 mph will likely trigger significant blowing and drifting snow Friday night, severely reducing visibility for drivers on local routes and major thoroughfares.
The primary danger for the Johnstown and Somerset areas shifts to the extreme cold as the sun sets Friday. Wind chill values are expected to plummet to between 20 and 30 below zero, posing a high risk for frostbite on exposed skin in under 30 minutes. Emergency management officials urge residents to winterize vehicles and delay non-essential travel. If you must be outdoors, dress in multiple layers and ensure a winter survival kit is in your car. Conditions are expected to remain hazardous until midday Saturday when winds begin to subside.
Five Day Forecast for Somerset, PA
• Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy and frigid with a low of 6°F.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny and cold with a high of 24°F; lows near 12°F at night.
• Friday: Heavy snow likely with near-blizzard conditions and a high of 22°F.
• Saturday: Blowing snow and dangerous wind chills with a high of 14°F.
• Sunday: Partly sunny and remaining cold with a high of 28°F.
