A growing lake-effect snow event is predicted to affect eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania from Sunday afternoon to Monday, with snowfall totals varying depending on the exact location of the dominating snow band. Cold northwest flow over Lakes Erie and Ontario will provide narrow but strong snowfall pathways that might cause dangerous travel, particularly north of Interstate 80.
Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Cleveland predict 3 to 6 inches of snow in the higher terrain of eastern Erie and Crawford Counties in Pennsylvania by early Monday morning. Additional light accumulations of 1 to 2 inches may occur on Monday as lingering bands reactivate. Locally, higher totals are conceivable where the major band sets up for several hours.
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Meanwhile, the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh advises that regions north of Interstate 80 may experience much higher totals, particularly in the most persistent part of the lake-effect band. Snow accumulations of up to 12 inches are anticipated where the band remains stationary tonight until Monday morning. However, a minor movement of a few miles might spell the difference between a foot of snow, a few inches, or even flurries. This high gradient is typical of lake-effect events, but it creates uncertainty for local people.
The worst snowfall is forecast between nightfall Sunday and Monday morning, coinciding with peak commuter hours in certain places. The core of the band will most likely have reduced visibility, snow-covered secondary roads, and hazardous travel conditions.
Travelers in eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, particularly those planning trips north of I-80, should pay close attention to forecast changes. Even short-distance driving may face quickly changing weather conditions, including near-whiteouts at times. Forecasters warn that circumstances may change rapidly as the lake-effect band reorganizes into Monday.
