Pennsylvania – Breath turns visible instantly as frigid air locks in across western Pennsylvania, making every step outside feel punishing. Steel railings sting to the touch. The cold is not subtle, and it is not letting up.
The National Weather Service in Pittsburgh has issued a Cold Weather Advisory covering much of western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia. Wind chills plunge between 10 and 20 degrees below zero at times. Even brief exposure can cause frostbite in minutes.
Pittsburgh wakes to dangerously low temperatures near zero, with calmer winds offering little relief. Any breeze drops wind chills sharply. Sidewalks remain dry but brittle cold increases the risk of flash freezing wherever moisture lingers. Drivers should stay alert on bridges, ramps, and untreated roads, especially along I-376, I-279, and Route 28.
A weak disturbance brings spotty snow showers later, mainly light but enough to reduce visibility briefly. Snow amounts stay minor, though even a dusting can create slick travel given the cold pavement. Plan extra time if traveling later today or early Sunday.
Sunday turns brighter but stays bitter. Highs struggle to reach the low 20s, while wind chills remain below zero during the morning. Sunday night stays cold, setting up another hard freeze. Pipes, pets, and vulnerable populations remain at risk through Monday morning.
Looking ahead, February begins cold but gradually moderates. Monday brings highs near the upper 20s. Tuesday warms slightly, though clouds increase with a chance of light snow. By midweek, temperatures hover near 30 before another system threatens snow later in the week.
This Arctic outbreak spans much of the eastern U.S., with the Great Lakes now nearly 50 percent frozen, reinforcing cold air downstream into Pennsylvania.
Limit time outdoors, cover exposed skin, and check on neighbors. Heading out today? How cold did it feel where you were?
Five-Day Outlook for Pittsburgh, PA
• Saturday: Bitter cold, wind chills below zero, isolated snow
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 21
• Monday: Partly sunny, high near 27
• Tuesday: Chance of snow, high near 30
• Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, cold, high near 27
