Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — Widespread snow will return New Year’s Eve tonight, with a dangerous travel window expected as a strong cold front moves through western Pennsylvania.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, snow will increase late this afternoon, with the heaviest snow and snow squalls occurring between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m.—a time that coincides with many New Year’s Eve celebrations and late-night travel. Rapidly moving snow bands could drop visibility to near zero at times.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for parts of the Pennsylvania and West Virginia ridges, where 4 to 10 inches of snow are possible due to enhanced lift. A Winter Weather Advisory covers the lowlands, including the Pittsburgh metro, where 3 to 6 inches of snow are expected. Lower totals are forecast toward Zanesville, Ohio.
Road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly during peak intensity. Impacted routes include I-79, I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike), I-70, I-80, and I-376, along with US-22, US-30, and PA-28. Snow-covered lanes and slick conditions are likely, especially during squalls when plowing may struggle to keep up.
Snow is expected to taper after midnight, but lingering slick spots and reduced visibility may continue into the early hours of New Year’s Day (Thursday), particularly on untreated roads and in higher elevations.
The National Weather Service urges anyone traveling tonight to plan ahead, slow down, allow extra time, and ensure vehicles are equipped for winter conditions. Those celebrating New Year’s Eve are encouraged to arrange safe transportation before heading out.
