As Pittsburgh wakes up to the remnants of a snowy morning, the National Weather Service promises a shift in the clouds, bringing dry and quiet conditions into the week. According to an early report, the last snow should stay south of the Mason-Dixon Line, dying down as clear skies roll in for the rest of Saturday. A mostly clear sky and quiet weather are expected this afternoon through tonight.
While the near-term forecast anticipates temperatures to remain below normal through tonight, a stray light snow shower might surprise folks north of I-80 in the wee hours before dawn on Sunday. These snowflakes, though, are likely not strong enough to leave a mark on the landscape. Sunday promises higher temps, with a bump in the thermometer pushing readings above seasonal levels, with highs flirting with the 50-degree mark particularly close to Pittsburgh. The National Weather Service's forecast discussion mentions a light dusting of warmth, highs reaching the mid to upper 40s north of I-80 and upper 40s to low 50s farther south on Sunday afternoon, bringing some relief after today's chill.
The upcoming week looks to steadily climb in temperatures, building high confidence in a rising tide of warmth as early as Tuesday. The forecast discussion states that high temperatures well into the 60s are a good bet by Tuesday, especially south of Pittsburgh. The next rain event is pegged for Thursday, but, tossing a cloud of uncertainty, ensembles are shifting towards a drier prediction than previously expected. The odds for any substantial rainfall are dampening, lending to prospects of continued clear skies through Friday.
From an aviation standpoint, pilots can look forward to clearer passages after a Saturday of mixed visibility, with VFR conditions making a more solid appearance from Saturday midday onwards. The Service's aviation report suggests a return to VFR area-wide is expected by 18z as dry air advances into the region. A slight wobble comes early Sunday, with potential ceiling restrictions for airports like FKL and DUJ, before airspace clarity is anticipated to return and persist into next week.
