Johnstown, Pennsylvania – Drivers across northern and western Pennsylvania should brace for a prolonged stretch of winter weather beginning this afternoon, as rain turns to snow and sharply colder air creates slick roads and dangerously low wind chills through Thursday and into early Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, multiple Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for Potter, Tioga, Sullivan, Cambria, Somerset, McKean, and Warren counties. Snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches are expected across much of the region, with locally higher totals in Warren County. Advisories begin as early as late morning in some areas and extend through Thursday evening or early Friday.
In communities including Coudersport, Wellsboro, Mansfield, Johnstown, Somerset, Bradford, and Warren, rain will transition to snow late today and continue through tonight before tapering to snow showers on Thursday. Gusty northwest winds of 30 to 40 mph will usher in much colder air, sending temperatures into the mid teens by Thursday morning. Wind chill values are expected to drop to near or below zero, especially across the higher terrain.
The Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes are expected to be the most impacted, with snow-covered roads, icy patches, and reduced visibility during heavier snow showers. Frequent snow showers may persist into Thursday afternoon and night in northern counties, adding additional accumulation.
Motorists are urged to slow down, dress for extreme cold, and allow extra travel time. PennDOT advises checking road conditions at 511pa.com before heading out. Winter weather advisories remain in effect across much of northern Pennsylvania, with additional updates possible as colder air deepens through the end of the week.
