Weather

Snowfall, hazardous road conditions prompt school delays, closings Thursday

PITTSBURGH — Numerous warnings and advisories were in effect early Thursday, as cold air and snow moved across the region.

Snow began to fall around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday and began to taper off Thursday morning.

VIEW School/Business Delays and Closings

Untreated roads were snow-covered and slick Thursday morning. Hundreds of school districts announced delays, and Pittsburgh Public Schools were closed.

Numerous downed trees were reported, and Route 837 in Dravosburg was closed Thursday morning due to a landslide. It reopened just before 7 a.m.

A

winter weather advisory

expired at 11 a.m. Thursday for Allegheny, Armstrong, Clarion, Green, Jefferson and Washington counties.

Between 4 to 6 inches of snow were expected for areas under the advisory.

A winter storm warning for Fayette, Indiana and Westmoreland counties was cancelled shortly after 11 a.m. Thursday.

A winter storm warning means significant amounts of snow are expected, which could make travel hazardous. Between 6 and 8 inches of snow were expected to accumulate late Wednesday into Thursday morning.

PHOTOS: Snowstorm hits western Pa

The Pennsylvania Turnpike lowered speed limits on much of its toll road system to 45 mph because of snowy weather. The restriction was lifted from the Ohio line to Blue Mountain by about 8 a.m.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said they have 65 crews working 12-hour shifts in Allegheny County, and Pittsburgh Public Works crews said they were prepared for a Level 2 snow event overnight. That means crews will have 48 hours to clear all of the streets.

VIDEO: Snow blankets western Pa. overnight

City leaders said that because of the warm weather, they have used less salt which means they've spent less money. They have used less than 15,000 tons, which equates to 1,000 tons an inch. If the mild winter continues, the city could save millions of dollars.

VIDEO: Pittsburgh under Level 2 snow alert; 65 crews working on roads overnight
VIDEO: What to know when it snows: Tips for residents

To report a street that has not been cleared of snow after 48 hours, call 311. Parking will be restricted only if a storm leaves 10 inches or more of accumulating snow. (VIEW Pittsburgh's Snow Plow Tracker)

Anyone who needs help shoveling their driveway or sidewalk can contact the Snow Angels, a group that matches volunteers with elderly or disabled residents. People who need assistance can call 412-475-2459.

 

Cox Media Group

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