Residents in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas should brace for light snowfall today, as forecasted by the National Weather Service (NWS) Pittsburgh PA. In a recent update, the NWS highlights an increase in snow chances during daytime hours, with temperatures seeing minor changes. An Extreme Cold Warning continues into Wednesday morning for Eastern Tucker County, while a broader Cold Weather Advisory is in effect for additional regions from 7 p.m. tonight to 11 a.m. Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service Pittsburgh PA.
This cold snap comes as part of a system that's ushering in possible record-breaking cold this week, with vulnerable populations at heightened risk. The NWS suggests limiting outdoor activities, preparing for power outages, and offering auxiliary support to loved ones. Additionally, residents are advised to insulate pipes or let faucets drip slowly to prevent freezing and ruptures. Pittsburgh may experience one of its coldest 8-day streaks in recent history, which would keep any unshoveled snow frozen and problematic for commuting, particularly on back roads. River ice is also expanding rapidly, a situation that threatens ice jams and potential flooding as February approaches.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Pittsburghers might face a Nor'easter, although forecast details remain unclear. The National Weather Service points out two scenarios: one presenting a higher chance of advisory snows if the upper low occludes earlier, and an alternative with a lower probability of snow, depending on the timing and location of low-pressure system development. The area could see a 60% chance of at least advisory snows in one scenario, while the other projects a mere 10% chance of advisory snows.
In aviation, snow showers are expected to bring mainly MVFR ceilings and visibility today, with temporary IFR conditions possible. A ridge of high pressure will bring some respite tonight, clearing skies and calming winds. Still, MVFR restrictions are on the table from Wednesday through Saturday, alongside light snow chances and flurries due to passing shortwave troughs. As for climate records, Pittsburgh and surrounding cities are on watch for potential new lows, challenging historical cold temperatures, and the possibility of joining the ranks of record cold stretches, the National Weather Service detailed.
The National Weather Service has applied an Extreme Cold Warning until 11 a.m. for parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, with spillover advisories into Wednesday for many of these same areas. A stark reminder that winter, with all its might, can humble the bustling hub of Pittsburgh and the humble abodes that span its outskirts. For continuous updates, residents should keep an eye on NWS advisories and forecasts.
