Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania – Drivers across the Poconos could lose visibility before midmorning as a blizzard drops up to 24 inches of snow and sends wind gusts to 50 mph through 6 p.m. Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, a Blizzard Warning is in effect from 7 a.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday for Carbon and Monroe counties. Snow will intensify through the afternoon, with the most severe conditions developing tonight. Forecasters say snowfall rates may exceed 2 inches per hour, while strong winds create whiteout conditions and heavy drifting.
Interstate 80, Route 33 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension are expected to deteriorate rapidly, especially across higher elevations near Stroudsburg and Jim Thorpe. Conditions will likely worsen ahead of the Monday morning commute and remain hazardous into the evening drive. Blowing snow may sharply reduce visibility even after plows clear lanes.
Gusty winds could snap tree branches and lead to isolated power outages in mountain communities. Emergency officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel, secure outdoor items and prepare for extended time indoors. If travel is unavoidable, carry a winter survival kit and check the latest road conditions by dialing 511.
Snow will taper during the day Monday, but gusty winds will continue to blow and drift snow into roadways. Additional alerts may follow as cleanup begins late Monday.
