STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – A sharp fall cold snap is gripping central Pennsylvania early Friday, with widespread frost and freezing temperatures ending the growing season for much of the region. Sub-freezing lows in the upper 20s to low 30s have triggered a Freeze Warning from the National Weather Service in State College through 9 a.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, the freeze risk spans from Clearfield and Centre Counties east through Lycoming and Union, including areas along I-80 and I-99. Residents are urged to protect outdoor plants, cover garden beds, and drain or wrap exposed pipes before the next cold stretch. Motorists should expect icy patches early Friday on rural roads, bridges, and shaded valleys.
While sunshine returns Friday with highs near 62°F, warmer air will bring a shift to unsettled weather by Saturday. Showers arrive late Saturday into Sunday, with heavier rainfall likely Sunday and Sunday night as a coastal system deepens along the Mid-Atlantic. Areas from Altoona to Williamsport could see up to an inch of rain by late Sunday.
The weekend chill signals the start of true fall conditions across Pennsylvania, with daytime highs in the 50s and lows in the 40s next week. Leaf-viewing and pumpkin patch outings should fare better by midweek once skies clear again.
Residents are advised to check NWS alerts and prepare for another frost risk early next week. Keep pets and sensitive plants indoors until temperatures stabilize.
Five-Day Forecast for State College, PA:
Fri: 62/42 – Sunny; frost early, calmer by afternoon.
Sat: 66/51 – Partly sunny; evening rain chance.
Sun: 64/49 – Rain likely; wet roads along I-99.
Mon: 59/47 – Showers taper; cloudy and cool.
Tue: 60/45 – Clearing skies; patchy frost possible early.
