Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvania is facing a complex and potentially hazardous stretch of winter weather from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook indicating a strong setup for snow, freezing rain, and mixed precipitation across the state. With temperatures trending near to slightly above normal in southern counties and colder conditions to the north, Christmas travel may be slow and slippery statewide.
According to NOAA, northern Pennsylvania—including Erie, Bradford, Scranton, and the northern tier—sits closest to the below-normal temperature band, supporting more frequent snow events and a higher likelihood of accumulating snowfall throughout the week. Lake-effect influences may also contribute to light additional snow near Erie and the I-90 corridor.
Central Pennsylvania—including State College, Williamsport, Altoona, and Harrisburg—falls within the zone with the highest freezing-rain potential. This region sits at the intersection of marginal surface temperatures and warm-air intrusion aloft, creating the ideal setup for periodic ice, especially from December 19–21. Light glaze, sleet, or rain–snow mix may cause dangerous early morning travel conditions.
Southern Pennsylvania—including Pittsburgh, York, Lancaster, and Philadelphia—leans toward above-normal temperatures, increasing the likelihood of cold rain during early storms. However, colder air pushing in from the northwest by December 22–24 raises the possibility of rain changing to wet snow, especially on higher terrain surrounding Pittsburgh and the Laurel Highlands.
Major highways—including I-76 (Turnpike), I-80, I-81, I-83, I-79, and U.S. 322—may experience slick conditions, icy patches, and reduced visibility, particularly December 21 through Christmas Eve, when impacts appear strongest.
