Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A powerful Arctic outbreak is set to bring dangerous, potentially life-threatening winter conditions across Pennsylvania and New Jersey beginning Friday, with brutal cold, strong winds, and periods of blowing snow making travel and outdoor exposure hazardous through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, the most severe impacts will be felt across western and central Pennsylvania, where Winter Storm Watches are posted for higher elevations including the Laurel Highlands. Snow totals of 2 to 6 inches are possible in Somerset, Cambria, and surrounding counties, with wind gusts approaching 50 mph creating near-blizzard conditions Friday afternoon into early Saturday. Visibility could drop below a quarter mile at times, especially on mountain roads and exposed highways.
Farther east toward the I-95 corridor, including Philadelphia, Trenton, and surrounding suburbs, snowfall amounts remain uncertain, but the cold and wind will be the dominant threat. Wind chills are expected to fall well below zero Friday night through Sunday, with some areas of northern and western Pennsylvania dropping to 20 to 30 below zero. Frostbite can occur in less than 30 minutes under these conditions.
In New Jersey, strong winds combined with Arctic air will drive subzero wind chills statewide, even along the coast. Brief snow showers or squalls are possible, capable of creating sudden slick spots on bridges and overpasses, particularly overnight.
Residents are urged to limit travel, especially in western Pennsylvania, and prepare homes for extreme cold. Wrap exposed pipes, open cabinet doors, and allow faucets to drip to prevent freezing. Charge devices ahead of time, prepare for isolated power outages, and bring pets indoors.
The cold will remain dangerous through the weekend, with gradual improvement possible early next week. Additional warnings or advisories may be issued as conditions evolve.
