Key Takeaways
- A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for counties south of Allegheny County, starting at 1 p.m.
- A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Allegheny County and others to the north
- 2-4 inches of snow is expected in the Pittsburgh area, with 3-5 inches in the city and 5-10 inches in the ridges
- Frigid temperatures and wind chill below zero are expected after the snow
- Road crews are prepared with salt and trucks, but are asking people to stay off the roads unless necessary
Introduction to the Winter Storm
A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for parts of the Pittsburgh area, with a Winter Weather Advisory in effect for other areas. The National Weather Service has warned of a "band of heavier snow" that is expected to hit the area, with the warning going into effect at 1 p.m. for counties south of Allegheny County. The warning is in effect for today and Sunday, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Snowfall Expectations
As of Friday evening, the Pittsburgh area is expected to see significant snowfall, with nearly all areas expected to receive between two and four inches of snow. In Pittsburgh, the estimate is slightly higher, with 3-5 inches expected, and 5-10 inches expected in the ridges. The snow is expected to be coupled with frigid temperatures, making travel and outdoor activities hazardous. The National Weather Service has warned that the snow will be heavy at times, making it difficult to clear roads and sidewalks.
Frigid Temperatures and Wind Chill
As the snow tapers off around midnight Sunday morning, the cold air will follow, leaving low temperatures in the single digits. The wind chill is expected to be below zero, with gusts reaching up to 15-20mph. This will make it feel even colder, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay warm. The cold temperatures and wind chill will make it difficult for road crews to clear the roads, and residents are advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Road Crew Preparations
Road crews across western Pennsylvania are preparing for the impending snowfall, with two dozen trucks and over 9,000 tons of salt at the ready in Allegheny County. The crews are asking residents to stay off the roads unless necessary, in order to give them the space to clear the roads. This will help to ensure that the roads are safe and passable, and will reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. The crews are well-prepared to handle the snowfall, but they need the cooperation of residents to do their job effectively.
Conclusion and Precautions
In conclusion, the Winter Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory are serious warnings that residents should take heed of. The snowfall and frigid temperatures will make travel and outdoor activities hazardous, and residents should take necessary precautions to stay safe. By staying off the roads unless necessary, and taking steps to stay warm, residents can help to ensure their safety and the safety of others. The road crews are prepared to handle the snowfall, but they need the cooperation of residents to do their job effectively. By working together, we can get through this winter storm safely and with minimal disruption.
