State College, Pennsylvania – Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect across north-central Pennsylvania, with accumulating snow, gusty winds, and the risk of dangerous snow squalls expected to impact travel through Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, advisories cover Potter, Elk, Cameron, Clearfield, and Cambria counties. Expiration times vary by location, with advisories continuing until 10 a.m. Thursday in Cambria and Clearfield counties and until 4 p.m. Thursday in Potter, Elk, and Cameron counties.
Forecasters expect additional snowfall ranging from 2 to 5 inches in Potter, Elk, and Cameron counties, with higher totals possible along ridge tops. In Cambria and Clearfield counties, total snow accumulations of 4 to 6 inches are forecast. Winds are expected to gust into the 20 to 30 mph range in northern counties and up to 45 mph farther south, creating areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility.
The National Weather Service warned that several heavy snow squalls are likely late Wednesday evening into the overnight hours, especially before midnight. These squalls may produce sudden bursts of heavy snow, rapidly dropping visibility to below one-quarter mile and quickly coating roadways.
Roads, bridges, and overpasses are expected to become slick and hazardous, with the most dangerous conditions occurring during the overnight hours and Thursday morning commute. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches in exposed areas, particularly in Cambria and Clearfield counties.
Wind chills are forecast to drop near zero later tonight and continue into Thursday, increasing the risk of exposure for anyone traveling or working outdoors.
Motorists are urged to slow down immediately if encountering a snow squall, turn on headlights, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Drivers are encouraged to check the latest road conditions at 511pa.com before traveling.
While snowfall will gradually taper Thursday, lingering slick spots and blowing snow may persist into the afternoon, especially in higher elevations.
