Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Wind gusts between 30 and 40 mph will peak from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, creating hazardous crosswinds on I-376, I-79, and other major roadways across western Pennsylvania.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, the strongest gusts will develop behind a passing cold front this afternoon. Most locations will see gusts in the 30 to 40 mph range, with the highest probabilities for 40 mph gusts stretching from eastern Ohio into southwest Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia.
High-profile vehicles face the greatest risk.
Drivers along I-70 near Washington, I-79 from Pittsburgh to Morgantown, and I-80 near Youngstown should prepare for sudden crosswinds, especially on exposed bridges and open north-south stretches. Gusty conditions may also affect US-22 and US-40, where unsecured debris could be blown into travel lanes.
Localized power outages are possible if gusts down small tree limbs, particularly in areas with saturated ground. Pittsburgh International Airport may experience minor delays if crosswinds intensify during peak afternoon travel.
Motorists should reduce speed, keep both hands on the wheel, and secure outdoor objects before winds increase.
Temperatures will fall into the 20s tonight as cooler air settles into the region, with breezy conditions gradually easing after sunset. Dry weather continues into the weekend, though colder-than-average temperatures persist. No Wind Advisory is currently posted, but gusty conditions will remain a travel concern through early Friday evening.
