Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – A more active and wintry pattern is expected to take shape across Pennsylvania as the New Year approaches, with growing confidence in accumulating snow, icy travel, and repeated weather disruptions from Dec 27 through Jan 9.
Large-scale weather signals favor frequent storm systems moving through the Ohio Valley and Northeast during this period. According to the National Weather Service in State College, colder air is expected to be available across much of the Commonwealth, allowing several systems to produce snow, particularly across central and northern Pennsylvania. The Allegheny Plateau, Laurel Highlands, and areas north of I-80 currently show the strongest signal for accumulating snowfall, while southern and southeastern sections may see more mixed precipitation during warmer phases.
Snowfall is expected to occur in multiple rounds rather than one long-duration event. This pattern raises the risk of recurring travel slowdowns along major corridors such as I-80, I-81, I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike), I-83, and Route 22. Overnight and early morning periods may be especially hazardous due to reduced visibility and snow-covered roads.
Lake-effect snow may also impact northwestern Pennsylvania at times, affecting areas near Erie and portions of I-90 when colder air moves over Lake Erie. Gusty winds with stronger systems could lead to blowing snow and isolated power outages where snow accumulates on trees and power lines.
PennDOT urges motorists to monitor road conditions closely during the holiday travel period, allow extra time, and carry winter safety supplies. While brief quieter periods are expected between systems, the overall setup supports a snowy and potentially disruptive start to 2026 across Harrisburg and much of Pennsylvania.
