A major winter storm is on its way to parts of the Northeast and Midwest, with Pennsylvania bracing for some significant snow and cold temperatures. While the storm will impact different areas in various ways, some parts of the state will experience heavy snow, while others will face dangerously cold wind chills.
Heavy Snowfall Expected in Northern Pennsylvania
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning for Erie County, where up to a foot of snow could fall over the next few days. From 1 a.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m. Thursday, Erie and surrounding areas could see anywhere from six to 14 inches of snow, making travel difficult and causing potential disruptions.
Other counties in the northwest part of the state will also see significant snow accumulations. Crawford County could receive between four and seven inches, while Warren County might see three to seven inches of snow. McKean County is expected to get two to four inches of snow.
Cold Weather Advisory for Western Pennsylvania
While snow is the major concern in the northern and western parts of Pennsylvania, residents in areas like Cambria and Somerset counties are facing a different type of challenge: extreme cold temperatures. A cold weather advisory has been issued for these regions, with wind chills potentially dropping as low as 15 below zero.
From midnight Tuesday until 10 p.m. Wednesday, temperatures will plummet, and the cold winds will make it feel even colder. People in these areas are advised to take extra precautions to stay warm and safe during the cold snap.
What About Harrisburg and the Surrounding Areas?
The Harrisburg area, located in south-central Pennsylvania, won’t see the same heavy snowfall as the northern and western parts of the state. However, residents should still prepare for some winter weather. According to AccuWeather’s forecast, the Harrisburg area can expect a light dusting of snow at various times throughout the week, with a wintry mix expected to arrive on Saturday morning.
Here’s what the National Weather Service is predicting for Harrisburg:
- Tonight: Partly cloudy, with temperatures dropping to around 18°F. West winds will range from 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 27°F. Winds will be coming from the west at 8 to 14 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 31°F. Winds will increase, blowing from the west at 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.
- Thursday: Snow showers are expected to begin after 1 p.m., with a high near 31°F. There is a 30% chance of snow during the day.
- Friday: Mostly sunny with a high near 39°F.
- Saturday: Rain is likely, with cloudy skies and a high near 41°F. The chance of precipitation is 60%.
How the Storm Could Affect Your Week
If you’re planning on traveling this week, be prepared for a range of weather conditions, especially in areas north of Harrisburg. Those in Erie and surrounding counties should expect heavy snow and potentially hazardous driving conditions. In contrast, people in the Harrisburg area will see lighter snow, with the biggest concern being the cold temperatures later in the week.
Make sure to stay updated on weather alerts, as conditions can change quickly. Keep an eye on local forecasts and be prepared for the cold, especially if you’re in the western or northern parts of the state. For those in Harrisburg, light snow showers and a wintry mix could make for an icy start to the weekend, so plan accordingly if you’re heading out.
Preparing for the Storm
As always, it’s important to be prepared for winter weather. Whether you’re in an area expecting heavy snow or just dealing with the cold, make sure you have a winter emergency kit in your car, stay bundled up, and check your heating system to ensure it’s working properly. For those in areas facing extreme cold, remember to layer your clothing and avoid spending extended periods outdoors.
Conclusion
A significant winter storm is set to hit parts of Pennsylvania this week, bringing snow, cold winds, and winter weather to various regions. While the Harrisburg area won’t see the worst of the storm, snow and cold temperatures will still affect the region.
Residents should stay informed about changing conditions and prepare for winter weather. Be sure to follow the latest updates from local weather services to stay safe and prepared.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
Leave a Comment