Pennsylvania residents should prepare for a blast oaf winter weather this week, as snow, bitter cold, and dangerous wind chills are set to impact much of the state. Forecasters warn that travel disruptions, icy roads, and subfreezing temperatures will make for a challenging few days.
A powerful winter system will bring widespread snowfall, followed by an Arctic air mass that will send temperatures plummeting well below freezing. If you haven’t stocked up on winter essentials yet, now is the time.
When and Where Will the Snow Hit?
The storm system is expected to move into Pennsylvania late Tuesday night, continuing through Wednesday and early Thursday. The biggest impacts will be accumulating snow, dangerous wind chills, and icy conditions.
- Tuesday Night: Light snow begins in western Pennsylvania, gradually moving eastward.
- Wednesday: Steady snowfall throughout the day, with accumulations ranging from 3-6 inches in western and central areas and 1-3 inches in the east.
- Thursday Morning: The snow tapers off, but Arctic air moves in, dropping temperatures to single digits.
How Much Snow Will Fall?
This storm will bring moderate snowfall totals across the state, with the heaviest amounts in the west.
Western Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh, Erie, Johnstown): 4-6 inches of snow, with blowing and drifting snow reducing visibility.
Central Pennsylvania (Harrisburg, State College, Altoona): 3-5 inches of snow, making for hazardous travel.
Eastern Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, Allentown, Scranton): 1-3 inches of snow, but ice accumulation could make roads slick.
Cold Temperatures and Dangerous Wind Chills
After the snow moves out, temperatures will drop sharply as an Arctic air mass moves in.
Expected Temperature Drop:
- Wednesday Night: Lows between 10°F and 15°F (-12°C to -9°C).
- Thursday & Friday: Highs struggling to reach the 20s°F (-6°C to -3°C), with dangerous wind chills making it feel below zero.
Wind chills could be as low as -10°F (-23°C) in some areas, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia for those exposed to the cold.
What This Means for Schools, Businesses, and Travel
The combination of snow and extreme cold will likely impact travel, school schedules, and daily activities.
- Schools may close or switch to virtual learning due to hazardous road conditions.
- Flights may be delayed or canceled at major airports, including Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.
- Roads, bridges, and sidewalks will be icy—drivers and pedestrians should exercise extreme caution.
How to Stay Safe and Prepare
Avoid unnecessary travel – Snow-covered and icy roads could make driving dangerous.
Prepare for power outages – Have flashlights, extra blankets, and non-perishable food in case of outages.
Dress in layers – Wind chills will be dangerously cold. Wear insulated clothing, gloves, and hats.
Stock up on essentials – Groceries, pet food, medications, and emergency supplies should be on hand.
Check in on elderly neighbors and family members – Those vulnerable to the cold may need extra assistance.
Final Thoughts: A Brutal Winter Week Ahead
This storm isn’t just about the snow—it’s the bitter cold that follows that will make conditions dangerous. With slippery roads, subzero wind chills, and travel disruptions expected, Pennsylvanians should take this winter storm seriously.
