As the weekend fast approaches, so does a prolonged winter storm that has area communities, including Penn Hills, bracing for up to a foot of snow.
According to the Penn Hills Public Works Department, snowfall is expected to occur over an estimated 24- to 36-hour period.
Penn Hills residents are being asked not to travel if they can help it during that period.
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings, and meteorologists are predicting 10 to 12 inches of snow will blanket the region.
Forecasters tell TribLive this will be the biggest snowfall in Western Pennsylvania in over 15 years.
The warnings say severe weather conditions will start at 7 p.m. Saturday and last until noon Monday. The highest intensity of snowfall is expected Saturday night through the day Sunday.
“During an extended storm like this, many roads will remain snow-covered even after being plowed multiple times. Residents should avoid unnecessary travel and stay off the roads whenever possible to help keep everyone safe and allow crews to work effectively,” a statement from the municipality said.
While the department will be working throughout the day Sunday, state roads and “major arteries” will take priority followed by secondary streets. They also warned people that, because of how long it’s expected to snow, there will be times when few or no plow trucks are on the streets.
“We do not expect to complete street clearing until sometime Monday afternoon,” the statement said. “Alleyways may not be cleared until as late as Tuesday.”
Penn Hills also issued a few reminders to residents:
• Keep vehicles off the street if possible to assist plowing operations.
• Use caution if you must travel, and allow extra time and distance for stopping.
• If you see a downed wire, stay away and report it to the appropriate utility provider.
The township will post updates periodically on its website at pennhillspa.gov or on its social media pages.