Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – February temperature signals suggest colder-than-normal conditions, impacting travel near Interstate 376.
According to a Sunday post from the National Weather Service Pittsburgh, climate data released ahead of Groundhog Day shows high probabilities for below-normal temperatures across much of February, with confidence decreasing later in the month. The outlook was published alongside historical context comparing national forecasts to predictions attributed to Punxsutawney Phil, whose annual appearance occurs near US-119 and US-322.
The National Weather Service noted that Phil has been accurate about 30 percent of the time over the past 10 years, based on comparisons between his predictions and observed national temperature outcomes. Since records began in 1887, Phil has forecast more winter 108 times, early spring 21 times, with 10 years showing no clear record.
The February outlook includes multiple forecast ranges, including 6–10 day, 8–14 day, and week 3–4 temperature probabilities. Collectively, those outlooks favor colder-than-normal conditions across western and central Pennsylvania, including areas surrounding Interstate 79, Interstate 80, and the Parkway East and West in the Pittsburgh metro area.
The Weather Service emphasized that these outlooks represent probabilities, not daily forecasts, and are based on large-scale climate signals rather than short-term weather systems.
While Groundhog Day traditions draw national attention each year in Punxsutawney, the agency stressed that official outlooks provide broader context for planning, including travel, heating demand, and outdoor activities.
For commuters, students, and shift workers traveling along I-376, I-79, and US-119, prolonged colder conditions may influence morning travel and energy use during the first half of February.
Additional information and historical data are available through the National Weather Service Pittsburgh’s Groundhog Day climate page.
