Pittsburgh, PA — A noticeable blast of colder air is expected to arrive in the Pittsburgh area this weekend, setting the stage for chilly temperatures early next week, just days before Christmas.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, a dry cold front is forecast to cross western Pennsylvania on Sunday, December 21. While a few passing flurries are possible, forecasters say most areas should remain dry with no significant snowfall expected.
The main impact from the front will be falling temperatures. By Monday morning, lows across the Pittsburgh metro area are expected to drop to around 18 degrees, with surrounding communities seeing temperatures in the mid-teens. These readings are expected to be 10 to 12 degrees below normal for late December.
Forecast lows across the region include 15 degrees in Butler, Indiana, Clarion, and Punxsutawney, 17 degrees in Washington and Uniontown, and 20 degrees near Wheeling and Martinsville. Colder pockets in higher elevations could dip even lower.
Despite the cold start, the National Weather Service says conditions will remain quiet and dry, with no major winter storms anticipated immediately following the front. Winds may be breezy at times Sunday but are not expected to reach hazardous levels.
The colder air will be noticeable for residents heading to work or school Monday morning, and officials recommend dressing in layers and allowing extra time to warm vehicles. Any residual moisture on roads could freeze overnight, leading to isolated slick spots, especially on bridges and untreated surfaces.
As the week progresses toward Christmas, forecasters will continue monitoring temperature trends, but early indications suggest a cold but manageable start to the holiday week.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated with the latest forecasts at weather.gov/pbz, especially with increased travel expected ahead of Christmas.
