Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — A fast-moving clipper system is expected to bring widespread light snow across western Pennsylvania late Thursday night into Friday, with minor but noticeable travel impacts, according to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh.
Forecasters report high confidence that accumulating snow will occur Friday, though snowfall amounts are expected to remain modest for most areas. General totals of 1 to 3 inches are forecast across the region, with the highest accumulations in the higher terrain, including the Laurel Highlands and ridges south and east of Pittsburgh. In those elevated areas, probabilities for 3 inches or more have increased.
Snow may begin as early as Thursday night into early Friday morning, with the heaviest snowfall expected late Friday morning into early Friday afternoon. Snowfall rates are expected to remain light to moderate, with dry, fluffy snow that can accumulate efficiently despite relatively low totals.
Travel impacts are expected along major corridors including Interstate 79, Interstate 376, Interstate 70, Route 28, and U.S. Route 219. While this system is not expected to produce significant disruptions, slick roads and reduced visibility could slow travel at times, particularly during the Friday commute and in higher elevations.
The National Weather Service notes that snowfall should diminish Friday evening and taper off by Saturday morning, with no major follow-up systems expected immediately afterward. Temperatures will remain cold enough for snow to stick to untreated surfaces, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
Communities including Pittsburgh, Butler, Washington, Greensburg, Indiana, and surrounding rural areas may see varying snowfall totals due to elevation differences. Drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions over short distances.
For commuters, students, and delivery drivers, Friday will be the most impactful period, even though snowfall amounts are relatively low. Allowing extra travel time and exercising caution on bridges and secondary roads is advised.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from weather.gov/pbz as snowfall timing and totals are refined.
