Residents of Erie County, Pennsylvania, should prepare for a fresh round of winter weather, as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the area. Forecasters are predicting up to 5 inches of snow by Friday morning, with hazardous travel conditions expected across the region.
How Much Snow Will Erie County Get?
According to the NWS in Cleveland, a lake-effect snow system combined with an approaching cold front will bring steady snowfall throughout Thursday night into early Friday. Here’s what to expect:
- Total snowfall accumulation: Up to 5 inches in parts of Erie County.
- Peak snowfall hours: Thursday night through early Friday morning.
- Visibility concerns: Snow could reduce visibility on the roads, making travel tricky, especially during morning commutes.
How This Will Impact Travel
With the heaviest snowfall expected overnight, morning commuters should prepare for slick roads and potential delays. Snow accumulation on untreated roads could make driving conditions treacherous, particularly in rural and elevated areas.
The National Weather Service urges drivers to:
- Reduce speed and allow extra travel time during commutes.
- Use caution on bridges and overpasses, as they freeze faster than main roads.
- Stay updated on road conditions, especially if heading out early Friday morning.
Staying Safe During the Snowstorm
As the storm moves in, residents are advised to take precautions to stay safe and prepared:
- Limit unnecessary travel if roads become hazardous.
- Check local weather updates regularly for the latest storm developments.
- Stock up on essentials, including blankets, food, water, and a flashlight, in case of power outages or emergencies.
When Will Conditions Improve?
Meteorologists expect snow showers to taper off by Friday morning, with cold temperatures lingering into the weekend. A gradual clearing is expected, but some icy spots could persist as temperatures remain below freezing.
For now, Erie County residents should bundle up, stay cautious on the roads, and prepare for another dose of winter weather before heading into the weekend.
