Pittsburgh, PA – Drivers across western Pennsylvania are urged to avoid unnecessary travel this afternoon as a Snow Squall Warning remains in effect until 3:15 p.m. EST, bringing sudden whiteout conditions and dangerous road impacts.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, the warning affects major roadways including I-76, I-79, I-279, and I-376 near Pittsburgh, as well as US-422 near Butler and New Castle. Snow squalls are capable of producing intense bursts of heavy snow, blowing snow, and rapidly dropping visibility, even though they may only last a short time.
Forecasters warn that visibility can fall to near zero within minutes, catching drivers off guard and significantly increasing the risk of crashes. Gusty winds combined with falling snow may lead to whiteout conditions, especially on open stretches of highway and elevated roadways.
The impacted area includes parts of Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, and Allegheny counties, covering communities such as Beaver, Ellwood City, Economy, Allison Park, Saxonburg, and West Mayfield. More than 500,000 residents live within the warned area.
Officials stress that snow squalls are especially dangerous because roads can go from wet to snow-covered almost instantly. Even experienced winter drivers can struggle during these fast-moving events.
Motorists are advised to slow down immediately, turn on headlights, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking if caught in a squall. If possible, drivers should delay travel until conditions improve later this afternoon.
Conditions are expected to improve once the squall passes, but slick spots may linger, particularly on untreated roads.
