Winter Storm Warning Issued as 9 Inches of Snow, 45 mph Winds Approach
Over the past several weeks, much of the United States has been hit hard by severe winter weather, including heavy snow, strong winds, and bitterly cold temperatures. Now, as everyone prepares to ring in the new year, it sounds like many people will be dealing with more winter weather.
Early Wednesday morning, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued what it described as an "urgent" winter storm warning for parts of Pennsylvania and West Virginia, just days after those states were already hit with some severe winter weather.
Winter Storm Warning
In a new winter storm warning issued early Wednesday morning, the NWS warned of "heavy" snow and strong winds in parts of southwestern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia.
"Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 6 and 9 inches. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. Snow squall conditions will be possible during the evening and overnight," the NWS said in its winter storm warning.
The winter storm warning was in effect for the area from Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 1 p.m. until 10 a.m. EST on Thursday, Jan. 1, which means that people in the area should expect some heavy snow as they ring in the New Year.
'Hazardous Conditions'
The National Weather Service warns that this winter storm is expected to bring "hazardous conditions" for anyone planning to travel on New Year's Eve.
"Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions will impact the Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes," the NWS warned in its advisory on Wednesday morning. "Gusty winds could bring down tree branches."
The NWS advises that everyone avoid travel in these conditions. However, if travel is necessary, some extra precautions are advised.
"If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 511," the NWS wrote.
Given the timing of the storms, which could be hitting their peak around the time when people are looking to travel for any New Year's Eve plans, it's important that everyone be extra careful and cautious on the road.