Pittsburgh woke up Wednesday to fog so thick it slowed the morning rush, with visibility dropping to about a quarter mile in low-lying neighborhoods along the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers. Temperatures are mild for early March, sitting in the upper 40s to near 50, and the gray soup is already leading to slower-than-normal travel on bridges, ramps, and riverfront roads.
The National Weather Service has expanded a Dense Fog Advisory for parts of the region through 11 AM Wednesday, warning that “low visibility could make driving conditions hazardous” and urging drivers to use extra caution, according to NWS Pittsburgh. Forecasters expect rounds of rain to roll through the area through Friday, with about 0.5 to 0.75 inches likely across much of the region and isolated thunderstorms possible tonight and especially on Saturday as temperatures climb into the 60s and low 70s. The agency also noted that river levels could be elevated late in the week because of the multi-day rainfall.
When the Fog Lifts and the Rain Moves In
Most neighborhoods should watch the fog gradually thin through mid to late morning, although stubborn patches will probably hang on near river valleys and other low-lying streets into the afternoon. Highs are expected to reach the upper 50s today, with a chance of light rain developing this afternoon. Tonight’s forecast calls for steadier rain and patchy fog, with lows near 51.
Additional rounds of rain on Thursday and Friday will help push highs into the 60s and 70s ahead of a frontal system that brings a higher risk of thunderstorms on Saturday.
Commute Tips
Drivers are urged to slow down, stick with low-beam headlights in the fog, and leave extra space when crossing bridges or merging on ramps. If possible, delay nonessential trips until visibility improves later this morning, and keep an eye on late-day forecasts if you have outdoor plans this afternoon or evening.
We published a weather update yesterday with background on the slow-warming pattern. For prior coverage, see our March 3 update.
