As Pittsburgh braces for a bout of winter weather, residents are advised to prepare for potential snowfall and extreme cold conditions. The National Weather Service in Pittsburgh has issued an Extreme Cold Advisory for areas north of the city and the higher elevations starting Saturday morning. According to their latest report, we can expect snowy conditions Friday through Saturday and a subsequent drop in temperatures that could break records.
Forecasts indicate that light, fluffy snow could accumulate between 1 and 3 inches in the lowlands, while the higher elevations might see 3 to 6 inches, with the possibility of greater snowfall in select zones. The National Weather Service stated, "Probabilities for Warning criteria snow (6+ inches) have decreased Friday over the ridges." Furthermore, residents are warned of blowing snow due to the dry nature of the expected precipitation and gusty winds that could accompany the front.
Travel on Friday evening could be particularly difficult, as the snowfall is set to potentially impact the evening commute, with peak snow accumulation expected between 10am and 5pm. The onset of an arctic front later in the evening could bring even lower temperatures, and lead to snow squalls, rapidly decreasing temperatures, and limited visibility.
Wind chill values are predicted to plummet to -10 or colder across the region, with even more severe chills reaching -20 to -25 in the northern parts and higher terrain. An Extreme Cold Watch was issued for these coldest areas, and a Cold Weather Advisory will likely be needed for most other locations, the National Weather Service cautioned in their advisory. In prolonged exposure, these wind chills could pose a risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
Looking ahead, there's a chance for some respite from the frigid temperatures next week, as models suggest a pattern change that could introduce above-freezing temperatures to the region. However, this potential warm-up brings its own concerns, particularly flooding. It's not only the rain that may contribute to the flooding but also the rapid melting of the snowpack, which holds a significant liquid equivalent. As the situation develops, officials will keep a diligent watch on local waterways that could be susceptible to overflow.
Aviation activities may also face disruptions starting early Friday due to low visibility and snow. Ceilings will thicken overnight but are favored to remain MVFR as snow arrives, explains the National Weather Service, hinting at moderate to poor conditions for flying. High pressure on Sunday could see the return of VFR conditions and ease some challenges for air travel.
Community members should remain vigilant, prepare for the possibility of power outages, and stay informed about weather updates. Those needing to travel should consider altering plans and take precautions while on the roads. For constant updates and further details, refer to the National Weather Service's website.
