Drivers in central Pennsylvania are bracing for a fast-moving and potentially dangerous snowstorm, with the National Weather Service issuing an urgent Snow Squall Warning for portions of Centre and Clearfield counties until 4:15 a.m. Monday.
At 3:18 a.m., radar and traffic webcams reported a thin but intense zone of snow spanning from Penfield through Lecontes Mills to Julian and traveling southeast at 20 mph. Forecasters warn that this system has the potential to produce unexpected whiteouts, wind gusts of more than 35 mph, and visibility of less than a quarter-mile in minutes.
The most substantial traffic impacts are expected along Interstate 80, specifically between the Dubois/Route 255 and Snow Shoe exits (mile markers 107 to 146). Conditions could change quickly, with sloppy roads, blowing snow, and sudden dips in visibility that could catch vehicles off guard.
Clearfield, Woodland, Penfield, Snow Shoe, Moshannon, Grassflat, Morrisdale, Black Moshannon State Park, Parker Dam State Park, Lecontes Mills, and S.B. are among the communities listed as under warning. Elliot is a state park.
NWS authorities advise anybody driving overnight or early this morning to slow down immediately, use hazard lights, and plan for significant visibility fluctuations. Snow squalls behave differently than regular winter snow showers, coming unexpectedly and with frightening severity before quickly passing.
Motorists are advised to postpone travel if possible until the squall passes through.
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