SNOWFALL FORECAST: First Widespread Snow Likely Sunday & Monday in Western Half of Pennsylvania

A weak low pressure system swinging down from the Northern Plains will make its way just northwest of Pennsylvania. Light snow showers are likely much of Sunday across the western half of the state, followed by scattered lake effect snow squalls on Monday.

Temperatures will be marginal Sunday, so there is no concern for snow accumulation on roadways outside of the lake effect belts. However, lake effect snow squalls are likely Monday mainly in Northwest PA, as strong northwest winds blow over Lake Erie. Snow squalls cause serious accidents if drivers do not take necessary precautions. The best advice we have it so gradually slow down. If visibility is extremely low and you are driving well under the speed limit, use your flashers.

Below is future radar (Hi-Res NAM) for 5:00 PM Sunday. Light snow will start falling early afternoon in Western PA. You may notice flakes flying at the Steelers game, but it will not be a large factor.

Scattered snow squalls will begin to flow in from Lake Erie early Monday morning. The snow squalls will then continue much of the day Monday. Here is future radar for 6:00 AM Monday.


SNOWFALL FORECAST FOR SUNDAY – MONDAY

Area A: Snowfall accumulation of 2 – 5″ expected. About half of that will come Sunday in the form of light snow, and the other half on Monday as snow squalls.

Area B: Snowfall accumulation of 1 – 2″ anticipated. Most of this will be light snow on Sunday, however an isolated snow squall is possible Monday.

Area C: Snowfall accumulation of up to 1″ expected. Light snow likely for several hours on Sunday, very isolated snow squall possible Monday.

The first snow of the year often takes people by surprise, be sure to share this with your family and friends!

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Josh has been passionate about weather as long as his memory dates! From watching the Weather Channel at age 7, to making hand-drawn hurricane maps at age 11, starting his first weather site at 13, and founding PWA at 15 and forecasting for the state for the past 9 years, Josh's interest in weather has never dwindled! As difficult as it is, he greatly enjoys forecasting for Pennsylvania due to its countless microclimates. The state is an East Coast severe weather hotspot and nearly always home to the rain/snow line during winter storms!