Bradford, Pennsylvania – Lake effect snow is intensifying across northwestern Pennsylvania this evening, setting up a prolonged period of hazardous travel and bitter cold that will last into early Monday.
Light to moderate snow will continue across the region through tonight, but conditions will worsen late tonight as lake effect snow bands develop over McKean and Warren counties. Once these bands become established, snowfall will turn heavier and more persistent, with total accumulations ranging from 4 to 8 inches by the time snow tapers early Monday morning. Locally higher amounts are possible where bands remain stationary for several hours, especially in higher terrain near Bradford and Warren.
According to the National Weather Service office in State College, the Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. Monday. Snow showers will be most intense overnight and again Sunday night, with limited improvement during the day Sunday. Visibility may drop quickly within heavier bands, creating rapidly changing driving conditions.
Temperatures will fall sharply tonight and remain cold through Sunday, with wind chills dropping below 0 degrees and staying subzero in the higher elevations. These cold conditions will allow snow-covered roads to remain icy, especially on untreated secondary routes, bridges, and mountain roads.
PennDOT crews will be monitoring and treating primary highways, but officials warn that lake effect snow can overwhelm plowing operations at times. Travel could become very difficult, and hazardous conditions may extend into the Monday morning commute.
Residents are urged to delay non-essential travel and prepare for extended winter conditions. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should reduce speed, allow extra stopping distance, and carry a winter survival kit including blankets, extra clothing, food, water, and a flashlight. Dressing in layers and limiting outdoor exposure is advised due to the dangerous cold.
