This morning the National Weather Service updated the Lake Effect Snow Warning for Northern and Southern Erie County late tonight through early Saturday morning:
Heavy lake effect snow is expected. Total snow accumulations between 8 and 20 inches. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph.
Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. The strong winds may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions will impact busy Thanksgiving holiday travel.
Lake effect snow will clip portions of far northern Erie County late Wednesday night into Thursday morning before the band moves inland. Intensity of snowbands are expected to increase throughout the day when snow may quickly accumulate on untreated surfaces. Snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour at times on Thursday and Thursday night.
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission strongly encourage motorists to heed all travel
restrictions and delay unnecessary travel. Visit www.511pa.com for the latest travel, roadway, and traffic conditions.
Persons should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order.
During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow to dry weather just a few miles away. Visibilities can also vary greatly. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility, and road conditions.
