Erie, PA – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for Crawford, Northern Erie, and Southern Erie counties from late Wednesday night through Friday evening, as a powerful lake effect snow event threatens to disrupt Thanksgiving travel, according to the National Weather Service in Cleveland.
Forecasters say snow totals of six inches or more are possible, with winds gusting up to 45 mph expected to cause blowing and drifting snow and dangerous whiteout conditions. The NWS warns that travel could become very difficult or life-threatening, especially during periods of heavy snowfall and strong wind gusts.
The heaviest snow is expected Thursday afternoon and evening, with rates approaching one inch per hour at times. Bridges and overpasses will likely become slick, and sporadic power outages are possible where gusty winds bring down power lines or tree branches.
Officials urge residents and travelers to monitor forecast updates, avoid unnecessary travel, and carry winter emergency supplies if driving. Conditions may vary sharply within short distances, with some areas seeing intense snow bands while nearby locations remain mostly dry.
