Those in Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas need to bundle up and brace for a mix of challenging weather conditions early this week. The National Weather Service Pittsburgh has updated its forecast, warning of additional snowfall, a prolonged cold snap, and dangerously cold wind chills, alongside a potential wind advisory for higher terrain on Monday.
According to the latest weather advisory, higher elevations saw slightly increased snow accumulations overnight, with 1 to 1.5 inches more expected. Other regions may experience a dusting to half an inch of snow. Travelers are warned to look out for slick conditions on untreated surfaces, as temperatures hover near 20F.
Ahead of Tuesday, the forecast becomes even bleaker. High temperatures today will struggle to make it out of the low/mid 20s, the weather service noted, with the arrival of another frontal passage on Monday set to intensify the cold. By Tuesday morning, there's a very high probability of temperatures plummeting below 10 degrees, with wind chills predicted to dive into the -5 to -20F range across the region. This severe cold has prompted discussions of a Cold Weather Advisory and even an Extreme Cold Warning in some areas.
Wind is another concern. Strengthening pressure gradients may cause wind gusts of 35-45 mph on Monday, especially in the higher terrain. Gusts could reach (or exceed in eastern Tucker County) Wind Advisory criteria, the National Weather Service warns. However, there remains uncertainty regarding the depth of the crossing trough and the strength of the surface low/pressure gradient.
The weather is set to impact air travel as well, with patchy MVFR (Marginal Visual Flight Rules) conditions expected through early afternoon. Following an improvement to VFR (Visual Flight Rules) later today, challenges will return late tonight into Monday morning with the arrival of a new cold front. Subsequent snow chances and restrictions are projected for Wednesday and Thursday, meaning Pittsburgh residents should keep a cautious eye on their mid-week travel and outdoor plans.
