Ice taps against windshields in central Pennsylvania this morning, and untreated roads around State College are turning slick. Temperatures sit near 28 degrees, cold enough for freezing rain and sleet to stick. If you’re traveling along I-99 or Route 322, slow down and expect reduced traction through late morning.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 1 p.m. Mixed precipitation will bring up to one-tenth of an inch of ice, with sleet accumulations under one inch. Hazardous conditions could impact the morning commute across Centre, Blair, Huntingdon, and surrounding counties.
As temperatures rise toward 37 degrees this afternoon, freezing rain will transition to plain rain. Slippery spots may linger on bridges and shaded roads even after precipitation changes over. Keep headlights on and increase following distance.
Rain continues tonight with lows near 36 degrees. By Wednesday, highs climb to 52 with scattered rain chances. Another round of steadier rain arrives Wednesday night into Thursday, when highs reach 58 degrees and precipitation chances jump to 80 percent.
Friday turns milder with highs near 65 and only a 30 percent chance of rain. The broader pattern favors a warming trend into early next week, with highs pushing into the upper 60s by Monday.
No significant snow accumulation is expected beyond today’s light sleet, but flash freezing remains a concern this time of year if temperatures dip after rainfall.
We are five days from clocks springing ahead at 2 a.m. Sunday. March daylight gains will accelerate across Pennsylvania.
Five Day Outlook for State College, Pennsylvania:
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high 52.
Thursday: Rain likely, high 58.
Friday: Chance of rain, high 65.
Saturday: Rain likely, high 69.
Sunday: Partly sunny, high 64.
