Pittsburgh, PA – Drivers across western Pennsylvania should prepare for hazardous travel conditions on Sunday, as snow showers, snow bands, and gusty winds move through the region during the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, light snow may begin as early as 7 a.m. Sunday, with the highest snowfall rates expected between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. During this window, snowfall rates could reach 0.1 to 0.3 inches per hour, with localized bursts of heavier snow possible in snow bands or brief squalls.
Total snowfall amounts are expected to be generally light across lower elevations, including the Pittsburgh metro, with totals near around 1 inch or less. However, higher terrain and ridge locations could see greater accumulations, with localized higher totals where snow bands persist longer.
Forecasters say winds will be a major factor, with gusts of 30 to 40 mph expected in lower elevations and 35 to 45 mph along the ridges. In the highest elevations of eastern Tucker County, gusts could reach up to 55 mph. These winds may lead to blowing snow, reduced visibility, and rapid changes in road conditions.
The combination of snow and wind may create brief whiteout conditions, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and exposed roadways. Travel impacts are most likely during the late morning and early afternoon hours Sunday.
Communities potentially affected include Pittsburgh, Washington, Butler, Latrobe, Indiana, Wheeling, and Zanesville, along with higher-elevation areas east and south of the city.
Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and remain alert for sudden drops in visibility.
