Pennsylvania Braces for First Snow of the Season: Forecast and Impact

Pennsylvania is preparing for its first significant snowfall of the season, with forecasters predicting a mix of rain and snow across various parts of the state. The most notable impacts are expected in the higher elevations, particularly in the Pocono Mountains, where a winter storm warning has been issued due to heavy snow and gusty winds.

In the Poconos, several inches of snow are anticipated, with accumulations potentially reaching up to half a foot or more in some areas. This region is expected to face difficult driving conditions and possible power outages starting from 4 p.m. on Thursday, November 21, 2024, and lasting for 24 hours.

In the greater Philadelphia area, the forecast is less severe. Rain showers are likely throughout Thursday morning, with a chance of rain turning to snow overnight. However, any snow that falls in suburban Philadelphia is expected to turn to rain by noon on Friday, with only light accumulations possible on higher hills and outlying suburbs. The National Weather Service predicts that temperatures will remain a couple of degrees above freezing, making significant snow accumulation unlikely in these areas.

The Lehigh Valley and northernmost suburbs may see a dusting of snow, especially on grass and colder surfaces, but temperatures are expected to be borderline freezing, making it difficult for snow to stick. The weekend is forecasted to be clear and cool, with no further precipitation expected after Friday evening.

The cold and blustery conditions will persist into the weekend, with wind gusts continuing to make temperatures feel even colder. However, the wet weather is expected to clear out by Friday evening, leading to a dry but blustery weekend).