Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for portions of western Pennsylvania due to the potential for significant ice accumulation beginning Friday morning and lasting into Saturday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh.
The watch includes parts of northwest, southwest, and western Pennsylvania, including Venango, Forest, Clarion, Jefferson, Armstrong, Indiana, and surrounding higher-elevation areas of Westmoreland and Fayette counties. Cities within the watch area include Franklin, Oil City, Clarion, Brookville, Indiana, Punxsutawney, Ligonier, Ohiopyle, and Tionesta.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm system may produce a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Snow accumulations are expected to remain limited, generally up to one inch, but ice accumulation could reach as much as four-tenths of an inch in some areas. Forecasters note that ice is the primary concern with this event.
Ice accumulation of this magnitude may result in tree damage and power outages. Travel conditions could deteriorate rapidly, with roads becoming slick or impassable, particularly during the Friday morning and evening commute periods. Elevated and untreated surfaces are expected to be especially hazardous.
The National Weather Service advises residents to closely monitor forecast updates as confidence increases on precipitation type and amounts. A Winter Storm Watch means conditions are favorable for severe winter weather, but exact impacts are still uncertain.
Officials recommend delaying travel if possible. Those who must travel are urged to use extreme caution, allow extra stopping distance, and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility and road conditions. Motorists should ensure vehicles are winterized and carry emergency supplies.
Commuters and holiday travelers across western Pennsylvania may want to adjust plans ahead of Friday as this potential high-impact ice event approaches.
