Pittsburgh, PA – Western Pennsylvania continues to experience one of its coldest starts to a year in decades, with multiple temperature and snow depth records already established in 2026.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, the city has recorded 17 consecutive days below freezing, marking the longest such streak since 2003 and ranking as the 12th longest on record. This extended cold has been accompanied by persistently low overnight temperatures and deep snow cover.
Forecasters report 25 days with minimum temperatures at or below 15 degrees, the most since 1981, tying for the second most all-time. These prolonged cold conditions have contributed to what officials describe as Pittsburgh’s coldest 25-day stretch since 1979, with an average temperature of 15.0 degrees during that period.
Snow has also played a significant role this winter. The region has seen 14 days with snow depth of seven inches or more, the longest such stretch since 2010. Consistent snow cover has reinforced the cold by limiting daytime warming.
Looking at the year as a whole, the National Weather Service notes Pittsburgh is experiencing its coldest start to a year since 1994, with an average temperature of 21.9 degrees through February 9.
Major roadways including I-376, I-79, I-279, I-76, and I-80 have been impacted by the sustained cold, particularly during overnight and early morning hours when temperatures remain well below freezing. Prolonged cold can increase wear on vehicles, affect road surfaces, and strain heating systems.
For commuters, students, and outdoor workers, the extended cold streak has required ongoing precautions, including layered clothing and winter vehicle preparedness.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that these statistics place the current winter among the more severe cold periods in recent decades and encourages residents to continue monitoring forecasts as conditions evolve later in February.
