Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – Travel across much of central Pennsylvania could turn hazardous starting early Friday as a widespread winter weather system threatens to bring a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and ice through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect for more than 30 counties, including Dauphin, Cumberland, York, Lancaster, Centre, Lycoming, Blair, Cambria, Schuylkill, and Northumberland counties. The storm may begin Friday morning and continue into early Saturday, with timing that could directly impact both the Friday morning and evening commutes.
The highest snow and sleet totals, between 3 and 5 inches, are possible across northern and eastern sections including Tioga, Sullivan, Columbia, and Schuylkill counties. Farther south and west, including Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, State College, and Altoona, ice accumulation poses the greatest concern, with up to three-tenths of an inch possible in some areas. Somerset, Bedford, and Cambria counties could see even higher ice totals, raising the risk for downed trees and power outages.
PennDOT urges drivers to avoid non-essential travel during periods of freezing rain and to allow extra stopping distance if travel is unavoidable. Residents should charge devices, secure alternate heat sources, and prepare for possible utility disruptions.
The winter storm watch remains in effect through Saturday morning, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued as confidence increases. Residents should continue to monitor updates from the National Weather Service as conditions evolve.
