Weather
Northern Pennsylvania Weather Alert: Up to 4 Inches of Snow Friday, Nov 13
State College, PA – Rain could turn into wet, accumulating snow across northern Pennsylvania Thursday evening, creating slippery roads before Friday's morning commute. Some higher elevation communitie
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-11-12T20:25:57.853Z
State College, PA – Rain could turn into wet, accumulating snow across northern Pennsylvania Thursday evening, creating slippery roads before Friday's morning commute. Some higher elevation communities could receive up to 4 inches of snow as winds gust to 35 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect at 7 p.m. Thursday, November 12, and continues until 1 p.m. Friday, November 13.
The advisory covers Potter, Tioga, Sullivan and northern Lycoming counties.
Communities including Coudersport, Wellsboro, Mansfield, Laporte and Trout Run could experience the season's first accumulating snowfall.
Up to 4 Inches Possible in Higher Elevations Forecasters expect rain to change to wet snow Thursday evening as colder air spreads across northern Pennsylvania.
Most affected locations could receive up to 2 inches of accumulation, while isolated higher elevation areas may see totals approaching 4 inches.
Elevation will play a major role in determining snowfall amounts.
The National Weather Service says accumulation is most likely above 1,500 feet, particularly on grass, vehicles and other non paved surfaces.
Lower elevations may experience more rain or less snow accumulation.
Winds could also gust to 35 mph, adding another challenge for motorists traveling through exposed mountain areas.
Friday Morning Commute Faces Winter Driving Hazards The most immediate concern involves travel late Thursday evening through Friday morning.
Wet snow can create slippery conditions, especially on untreated roads, bridges and elevated surfaces.
Even where pavement initially remains wet, temperatures and road conditions can change quickly as precipitation continues.
Motorists traveling through northern Pennsylvania should prepare for slower traffic and changing visibility.
Routes serving Wellsboro, Coudersport, Mansfield and surrounding mountain communities could experience localized winter driving hazards.
The weather service specifically warns that the first snowfall of the season can create greater travel impacts as drivers readjust to winter conditions.
Leave additional travel time, reduce speed and increase following distances.
Drivers can monitor current roadway conditions through Pennsylvania's official 511 travel service.
Colder Weather Brings First Taste of Winter The developing snow threat is part of a broader weather pattern affecting the northeastern United States.
The NOAA Weather Prediction Center expects a strengthening storm system to spread precipitation across the region as colder air moves southward.
Rain is expected to change to snow in portions of higher elevation Pennsylvania and New York.
For northern Pennsylvania, the combination of wet snow, gusty winds and the Friday commute creates the most immediate concern.
Residents should secure lightweight outdoor items and prepare vehicles for changing road conditions