Erie, PA – A Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect for Erie County, Pennsylvania from 1 a.m. Thursday through 1 a.m. Saturday, as a powerful snow band is expected to deliver up to 18 inches of accumulation and wind gusts up to 50 mph, according to the National Weather Service in Cleveland.
Forecasters warn that whiteout conditions and rapidly changing visibility will make travel treacherous, especially on Interstate 90, Route 19, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour during peak periods Thursday morning, Thursday night, and into early Friday.
The storm is expected to impact both holiday travelers and local residents, with snow bands moving inland from Lake Erie and intensifying throughout Thanksgiving Day. Northern and Southern Erie counties, including Erie, Edinboro, Corry, and Union City, are forecast to receive 8 to 12 inches, while inland areas could see locally higher totals.
Officials urge residents to delay unnecessary travel and to carry emergency supplies if driving is unavoidable. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation advises checking 511pa.com for updated road and travel conditions before heading out.
