Pennsylvania – Gray skies hang low over the hills this morning, and the air bites exposed skin almost instantly. Exhaust plumes rise along city streets as Pittsburgh wakes up to deep cold and a winter system that is already organizing nearby.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory beginning this afternoon through Thursday morning. Snow develops later today, intensifying through evening and the overnight period. Total accumulations between 3 and 5 inches are expected across Pittsburgh and surrounding communities. Brief snow squalls may sharply reduce visibility.
Temperatures remain locked in the teens and lower 20s. Wind chills dip into the single digits, especially along ridges and open roadways. As snow falls onto frigid pavement, flash freezing becomes a real concern. Roads may look wet but turn slick quickly.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly by evening. I-79, I-376, Route 28, and neighborhood hills could become hazardous during the evening and early New Year’s Day commute. Motorists should plan extra time and avoid sudden braking. Reduced visibility may occur during heavier snow bursts.
Snow tapers on New Year’s Day, but the cold does not. Highs struggle to reach the mid-20s, keeping untreated roads icy. Crews continue cleanup through Thursday night as clouds linger and temperatures drop again.
By Friday, the region sees modest improvement. Skies brighten, but highs remain near freezing. The first weekend of 2026 stays cold and mostly cloudy, with highs near 30 Saturday and low 30s Sunday. Another light precipitation chance returns early next week.
Prepare now. Stock vehicles, slow down, and check on neighbors. Winter is making its presence known as 2026 begins. How are conditions where you’re traveling today?
Five-Day Outlook for Pittsburgh, PA
- Today: Snow develops. 3–5 inches possible. High near 32°F.
- New Year’s Day: Morning snow ends. Mostly sunny. High near 24°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny. High near 33°F.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy. High near 30°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny. High near 32°F.
