Severe winter storm brings up to 5 inches of snow to Pittsburgh area

In the United States, a significant winter storm system has begun impacting western Pennsylvania, especially the Pittsburgh area. As of Sunday evening, the storm brought indications of heavy snowfall, prompting officials to issue winter storm warnings across several counties, including Greene, Fayette, Washington, Westmoreland, Somerset, Monongalia, and Garrett. These warnings were set to remain in effect until 7 p.m. on Monday. Snowfall predictions indicate that regions south of Pittsburgh may receive up to 9 inches of snow, while other areas may see totals ranging from 2 to 6 inches. Prior to the storm’s arrival, various schools and organizations announced closures or changed plans to ensure public safety. The severity of the weather led Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh to prepare pre-treatment of roads, and public works crews were mobilized to manage snow removal effectively. As the snow continued to accumulate, PennDOT implemented vehicle restrictions on major roadways to maintain safety, including lowering speed limits and banning certain types of vehicles. To enhance road safety, Pittsburgh’s Public Works Department prepared to deploy numerous salt trucks and emphasized the need for drivers to exercise caution, adjust their travel plans, and provide sufficient space for public works vehicles. It is anticipated that heavier snowfall could lead to prolonged snow removal efforts in neighborhoods, prioritizing major roads first. Overall, the winter storm's impact on Pittsburgh and surrounding areas has raised concerns regarding transportation safety and public service preparations. Authorities urge residents to remain informed about weather conditions, adhere to warnings, and plan ahead for any disruptions caused by the winter storm.