Pennsylvania – A prolonged winter storm brought widespread heavy snowfall across Pennsylvania from January 23 through January 26, with top totals exceeding 23 inches, according to compiled storm reports.
The highest snowfall total reported in the state was 23.0 inches in New Bethlehem (2 miles north), making it the snowiest observed location in Pennsylvania during the multi-day event. Several additional communities across western and central Pennsylvania recorded snowfall totals at or above 20 inches, highlighting the storm’s strongest impact zone.
Among other high-end reports, Clintonville (1 mile southeast) and Rowland each measured 20.0 inches. Connoquenessing (2 miles north-northeast) and Eau Claire (6 miles west-southwest) both reported 18.5 inches, while Beaver Falls and West Liberty (4 miles east-southeast) recorded 18.0 inches.
Snowfall totals near 17 inches were common across portions of western Pennsylvania. Twin Lakes (6 miles south) measured 17.5 inches, Jennerstown (4 miles west) recorded 17.3 inches, and Grove City (1 mile north) reported 17.0 inches.
Farther east, snowfall totals gradually decreased. State College (1 mile north-northeast) measured 13.1 inches, while Pittsburgh (2 miles west) recorded 12.0 inches. In southeastern Pennsylvania, Philadelphia reported 9.3 inches, reflecting the storm’s sharp west-to-east gradient across the state.
Snow accumulated steadily over multiple days rather than falling in a single intense burst, prolonging hazardous travel conditions. Major corridors including Interstates 70, 76, 79, 80, and 99 experienced periods of slick roads, reduced visibility, and slowed traffic, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Cleanup operations continued after snowfall ended as cold temperatures limited melting, allowing snowpack to persist on secondary roads, bridges, and shaded areas.
The January 23–26 storm ranks among the most significant snow events of the season for Pennsylvania, particularly across western and central portions of the state, contributing substantially to seasonal snowfall totals.
