Cold weather and persistent snow showers are in store for Pittsburgh and the Upper Ohio Valley as disturbances make their way through the area this week, the National Weather Service Pittsburgh PA reported early Monday in its area forecast discussion. The most significant snowfall is expected to blanket the region from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday, with northern areas forecast to bear the brunt of the wintry conditions.
The forecast update, as issued at 6:45 AM EST today, indicates that snow showers will be tapering off south of I-80 later this morning after the passage of an upper-level trough, with scattered flurries continuing primarily north of Pittsburgh, "These should taper off south of I 80 by mid to late morning after the passage of the trough," the National Weather Service stated, going on to warn of increased snow coverage this afternoon and evening, especially north of I-80, where lake-enhanced snow is expected.
A second shortwave will bring additional snow showers into tonight and early Tuesday, sprinkling light accumulations across the region, especially north of I-80, where an inch or two is possible, according to the National Weather Service. The forecast discussion further communicated that probabilities for more than two inches of snow in any 24 hours remain at 30-40 percent for the far northern reaches of the forecast area.
Wednesday night heralds another bout of snow showers, but the focus then shifts to a cold front that promises to increase snowfall rates for areas north of I-80 and across the higher terrain areas. Those places see upwards of 60-80 percent chances of at least 2 inches of snow—less so for other regions, which have between 30-50 percent probability. As the weekend approaches, another trough from the Midwest could spell more snow prospects, keeping temperatures below average throughout the period.
For flyers, the aviation forecast suggests low VFR to MVFR stretch decks persisting through most of the period, with local restrictions in scattered snow showers expected this morning. The upcoming weather changes indicate widespread restriction and snow potential late Wednesday with a warm front, followed by snow showers and gusty winds Wednesday night and Thursday. Restrictions, snow showers, and gusty winds are expected Wednesday night and Thursday, with a cold front and subsequent upper troughing and lake enhancement, making for challenging conditions for pilots and travelers alike. Some improvements to VFR are forecasted for Friday as the wave exits and the wind shifts to a more southwesterly direction.
