Pittsburgh residents can expect a blend of sun and breeze today, with a shift toward a warmer pattern later in the week, according to the National Weather Service's latest forecast. The dry, crisp conditions lingering over the area will give way to rain chances by Monday evening.
Today's weather is shaped by a cold front skirting the Great Lakes, which, despite its passage, is unlikely to bring snow due to the weak moisture profile aloft, according to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh. Temperatures will fall during the day but are expected to remain seasonable overnight. The upcoming shortwave pushing in on Monday will ultimately result in wetter conditions, with some areas north of Pittsburgh potentially facing a wintry mix early Tuesday before transitioning to rain across the region as the day progresses.
Looking ahead to Monday and Tuesday, a warm-nose aloft with enough jet lift could squeeze some light rain or snow, stated the National Weather Service. However, most of this precipitation is poised to be rain, thanks to rising temperatures aloft. Commuters northeast of Pittsburgh should be cautious early Tuesday, as a potential for freezing rain before the shift to rain might create precarious driving conditions. Ensemble models suggest a "10-20%" chance for a glaze of ice accumulation in these areas.
The weather narrative shifts dramatically by mid-week, with the forecast projecting a seasonably warm pattern that might seem out of place for December. It will feature temperatures becoming above to well above normal, affirmed the National Weather Service, indicating a scenario reminiscent of summer patterns, albeit without the severe weather. Despite this, they note an inconsistency, a push and pull in the atmospheric story that could alter the swing of temperatures and the location of precipitation. This uncertainty suggests wild cards are still at play in the week's weather deck.
In aviation, sky-watchers and travelers can anticipate VFR conditions across most areas today. However, gusts up to 25 knots from the northwest were noted, a slight concern that could perturb the otherwise calm narrative of the skyways. For anyone flying in or out of Pittsburgh overnight into Tuesday, be aware that the pleasant visibility is forecast to deteriorate with widespread restrictions likely due to incoming rain and possible wintry mix.
For detailed updates and specific forecasts, Pittsburgh airspace patrons and city dwellers alike are encouraged to stay tuned to the National Weather Service website.
