Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – A renewed blast of Arctic air is expected to push into western Pennsylvania beginning Thursday, bringing the risk of subzero wind chills, dangerous cold exposure, and periods of snow through the following Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, western Pennsylvania is favored to see below-normal temperatures during the Jan. 15–21 period as a large-scale cold pattern settles across the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley. Precipitation is expected to trend near seasonal levels, but the persistent cold will allow any snow to quickly create icy travel conditions.
The Pittsburgh metro area, along with Butler, Beaver, and Allegheny counties, faces an increased risk of overnight wind chills dropping below zero. Prolonged cold could strain heating systems and raise concerns for frozen pipes, particularly during the coldest overnight stretches. Even light snow could lead to slick conditions on Interstate 79, Interstate 376, and the Parkway East and West during peak travel times.
Farther north, areas including Mercer, Venango, and Clarion counties may see the coldest readings, with snow chances enhanced at times by northwest flow off Lake Erie. In the ridges of Fayette, Westmoreland, and Somerset counties, terrain-driven impacts could worsen travel, especially on secondary roads and elevated surfaces.
Residents are encouraged to prepare now by checking furnaces, insulating exposed plumbing, and ensuring vehicles are equipped with winter emergency supplies. Limiting time outdoors during late-night and early-morning hours will be important if wind chill advisories are issued.
Cold-related alerts and possible winter weather advisories may be issued as confidence increases. Additional updates are expected as the Arctic pattern becomes better defined heading into late next week.
