Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — Snow and a low-end freezing rain threat could create hazardous travel conditions across parts of western Pennsylvania today and tonight, particularly north and west of Pittsburgh.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, the most impactful snowfall is expected across northwest Pennsylvania, where a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. today through 10 a.m. Thursday. In those areas, accumulating snow may be accompanied by light freezing rain at times this afternoon and evening.
Elsewhere across the region, including the Pittsburgh metro area, snowfall amounts are expected to range from a dusting to around 1 inch outside of the ridges. Areas south of Pittsburgh may see precipitation mix with rain at times, limiting snow accumulation.
Forecasters also note a low probability for light freezing rain or freezing drizzle across the ridges late this afternoon into the evening. While ice amounts are expected to be minimal, cold ground temperatures could allow precipitation to freeze on untreated surfaces, resulting in slick spots.
Roadways including Interstate 79, Interstate 80, U.S. Route 422, and other secondary roads could become hazardous, particularly during the late afternoon and evening commute. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads are expected to be the most vulnerable to icing.
The National Weather Service advises drivers to use caution, reduce speeds, and allow extra travel time. Even small amounts of ice can significantly increase crash risk, especially during periods of steady light precipitation.
Snow and ice impacts may linger overnight into early Thursday, especially in advisory areas where colder temperatures persist. Road conditions could remain slick through the Thursday morning commute in parts of northwest Pennsylvania.
For commuters, students, and evening travelers, the highest-risk window is expected late this afternoon through tonight, when snow and a potential light glaze of ice may combine to create hazardous driving conditions across western Pennsylvania.
