* WHAT…Blizzard conditions. Additional snow accumulations of 10 to
18 inches north of I-90 increasing to 12 to 20 inches with locally
higher amounts south of I-90. Wind gusts up to 60 mph north of
I-90 and up to 50 mph south of I-90, mainly this morning.
* WHERE…Northern Erie and Southern Erie Counties.
* WHEN…Until 1 AM EST Saturday.
* IMPACTS…Visibilities will drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and
blowing snow. Significant drifting of snow is likely, including
across some roadways. The strong winds may cause downed trees and
power outages. Whiteout conditions are expected and will make
travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Travel is
expected to be impossible today and should be postponed. The
hazardous conditions will impact the commutes this morning and
evening.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…An Arctic front and associated snow squall
have crossed the area this morning and has allowed for some travel
impacts across the region. Lake effect snow with the strongest
winds and blizzard conditions of the event are developing and will
last through midday today. Lake effect snow bands will continue
for this afternoon and be the main concern for the rest of the
event through Friday as wind gusts slowly diminish. The strong
winds and density of the large snowpack across Northwest
Pennsylvania could result in damage to structures.