A massive lake-effect snowstorm is expected to sweep through western Pennsylvania and the Pittsburgh region from Thursday through Sunday, bringing whiteout conditions, dangerous winds, and potentially historic snowfall totals, according to the FOX Forecast Center.
Forecasters warn that this could be one of the largest lake-effect snow events of the season, threatening major travel routes across western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, and parts of Ohio. Gusts up to 50 mph combined with heavy snow are expected to create life-threatening driving conditions.
The National Weather Service has already issued Winter Storm Watches for western Pennsylvania and surrounding lake-effect zones. More than 2–3 feet of snow could fall in some areas, with localized totals even higher depending on wind direction.
Snow will begin late Thursday, with the worst conditions arriving Friday through the weekend as arctic air sweeps across the Great Lakes, fueling long-lasting snow bands capable of shutting down major highways and grounding holiday flights.
Butler, Washington County, and even parts of downtown Pittsburgh may face intense snow bursts, near-zero visibility, and prolonged road closures.
Meteorologists warn that shifting winds throughout the weekend may drag heavy snow bands farther south, creating rapidly changing conditions that could catch travelers off guard.
