Snow is in the forecast once again this week as a winter storm heads toward Centre County.
The National Weather Service early Tuesday morning issued a winter storm watch for portions of central Pennsylvania that will stretch from late Tuesday through Wednesday evening. The storm is expected to bring heavy snow and strong gusts of wind to the area.
According to AccuWeather, the impending storm is expected to most likely produce between 3 and 6 inches of snow in State College. Precipitation will likely start as light, powdery snow around daybreak before changing to heavier snow and, later, into sleet, freezing rain or rain in the afternoon and evening, AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tom Kines said.
“The amount of snow will likely depend on the time of the changeover,” Kines said. “As we close to that change [from below freezing to above freezing], precipitation will get heavier. That’s the problem, because if the heavier precipitation lasts a little longer than anticipated in the form of snow, we’ll get 6 inches or maybe even more than that. But if it’s a quick change, we’ll be closer to 3 inches with rain later on. That’s where the question mark is… how quickly it changes over during the time of heavier precipitation.”
A trace of ice could accompany the storm, and high winds could pose a threat, as well. Gusts are expected to occasionally top out near 40 mph, while sustained winds sit near 10 mph.
“While those winds are certainly noticeable, they’re likely not going to start knocking tree limbs or power lines down,” Kines said.
The storm is expected to significantly impact travel in the region on Wednesday. According to the National Weather Service, the storm could produce snowfall rates upward of 1 inch per hour during the morning and early afternoon. AccuWeather’s forecast expects “rapidly worsening travel conditions with low visibility” on Wednesday.
Drivers are encouraged to avoid non-essential travel on Wednesday while the bulk of the impending storm blows through the area. Those who must travel are encouraged to maintain a safe distance between cars, keep their lights on and remain flexible with their commutes.
“Give yourself some extra time tomorrow,” Kines said. “I guarantee the roads will be covered in snow. The people that live here know how to drive in the snow, at least supposedly. Having said that, we haven’t had too many scenarios this winter in which we’ve had to drive in the snow, so some of us might be a little rusty. Just take it easy and be smart in these situations.”
Once the storm subsides, homeowners are encouraged to act quickly to clear their driveways and sidewalks. Snow removal should be easier when temperatures creep above freezing Wednesday night and on Thursday. If left alone, wet snow could freeze overnight.
