State College, PA – Drivers across central Pennsylvania are being urged to avoid travel this afternoon as two dangerous snow squalls sweep through the region, creating sudden whiteout conditions and slick roads.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, Snow Squall Warnings are in effect until 4:30 p.m. for parts of Centre, Blair, Huntingdon, and Mifflin counties. Forecasters say the squalls are moving east at 45 mph, producing intense bursts of heavy snow and rapidly falling visibility.
The first squall was observed near Boalsburg around 4:05 p.m., with radar and trained spotters confirming near-zero visibility. The squall is expected to impact communities including Lewistown, Burnham, Milroy, Yeagertown, Reedsville, Potters Mills, Seven Mountains, and Reeds Gap State Park.
A second squall was detected just minutes earlier near Warriors Mark, also racing east. This squall is expected to hit Tyrone, Bald Eagle, Belleville, Birmingham, McAlevys Fort, and areas surrounding Whipple Dam State Park. The National Weather Service warns this squall may drop visibility to less than one-quarter mile, with wind gusts topping 35 mph.
I-99 travelers between mile markers 47 and 55 are specifically advised to use extreme caution, as conditions may deteriorate within minutes.
Forecasters describe snow squalls as “dangerous and life-threatening” due to their ability to create instant whiteouts and icy pavement. Drivers caught in the path may experience rapid visibility loss, slippery surfaces, and sudden braking hazards.
Officials strongly urge drivers to delay travel until the squalls have passed. Those already on the road should slow down, turn on headlights, and avoid sudden lane changes.
