If you have weekend plans in Pittsburgh, you might want to rethink them. A winter storm is heading toward the city, and it’s bringing a chaotic mix of heavy rain, snow, and plummeting temperatures. The shifting conditions could create dangerous travel hazards, especially by late Sunday when roads start to freeze.
Saturday will kick off with gray skies and scattered showers. As the day goes on, the rain will become more widespread and steady, making for a chilly, damp afternoon. Highs will reach around 42°F (5°C), keeping things just warm enough for all precipitation to fall as rain.
Though the roads won’t be icy just yet, standing water and reduced visibility could still make driving tricky. If you’re out and about, watch for slick spots and puddles, especially in low-lying areas. Overnight temperatures will stay close to 41°F (5°C), meaning Pittsburgh will remain in the rain zone—at least for now.
Sunday will feel like two completely different seasons in one day. The morning will be mild, with highs reaching 45°F (7°C) and lingering rain showers continuing. But don’t let the warm start fool you—by late afternoon, colder air will start rushing in, quickly dropping temperatures.
As the mercury falls, the rain will start mixing with snow, and by evening, Pittsburgh could see 1 to 3 cm of accumulation. It won’t be a major snowstorm, but the sudden freeze will turn wet roads into icy, slippery surfaces. By Sunday night, temperatures will plummet to a bitter 18°F (-8°C), setting the stage for potentially hazardous conditions heading into Monday morning.
TRAVEL WARNING: Slippery Roads Expected Sunday Night into Monday
The biggest concern with this storm isn’t the snow itself—it’s the rapid freeze. With temperatures crashing below freezing so quickly, any leftover moisture on the roads could turn to black ice, making travel extremely dangerous late Sunday and early Monday morning.
If you must drive, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Slow down and drive cautiously. Wet roads turning icy can be unpredictable.
- Give yourself extra stopping distance. Braking suddenly on ice can lead to skidding.
- Stay updated on road conditions. Check weather reports before heading out.
- Avoid bridges and overpasses if possible. These areas freeze faster than regular roads.
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert and Stay Safe
Pittsburgh is in for a messy and potentially dangerous weekend of weather. The key will be staying ahead of the changing conditions—what starts as a wet, rainy weekend could quickly become an icy, slippery nightmare by Sunday night.
