Powerful Blizzard Sweeps Across Northeast Pennsylvania as Winter Storm Intensifies; Heavy Snow to Spread Into Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine
SCRANTON, PA — Intense blizzard conditions are battering parts of northeast Pennsylvania this evening as a powerful winter storm moves up the East Coast, creating whiteout visibility, treacherous roads, and blinding snowfall. Forecasters warn that the same system will strengthen overnight, bringing snowfall rates of up to three inches per hour across parts of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
Whiteout Conditions in Pennsylvania as Plows Struggle to Keep Roads Clear
Footage from local storm trackers shows snowplows fighting near-zero visibility on highways as high winds whip across the region. The heavy snow has already made driving conditions extremely hazardous, prompting officials to urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings and winter storm alerts for large portions of the Northeast, cautioning that the combination of strong winds, heavy snowfall, and drifting snow will make travel “extremely difficult to impossible” through early Wednesday.
Snowfall totals in northeast Pennsylvania are already piling up rapidly, and forecasters expect additional accumulation overnight as the system pushes further north.
Up to Three Inches of Snow Per Hour Possible in Northern New England
As the storm continues to track into northern New England, meteorologists warn that some areas could experience snowfall rates exceeding three inches per hour late tonight into early Wednesday morning.
The heaviest bands of snow are expected to impact:
- Central and Northern Vermont
- Western and Northern New Hampshire
- Interior Maine
These conditions will likely cause rapid snow accumulation, dangerous whiteouts, and power outages due to heavy, wet snow weighing down trees and power lines.
“Visibility may drop to near zero at times,” the National Weather Service stated in its latest update. “Those who must travel should carry emergency supplies and be prepared for sudden road closures.”
Travel and Power Concerns Across the Region
High winds accompanying the storm — with gusts topping 40 to 50 mph in exposed areas — are expected to worsen conditions by creating snow drifts several feet deep. The combination of blowing snow and icy surfaces will lead to major travel disruptions, particularly along Interstate 81 in Pennsylvania and I-89 and I-93 across New England.
Officials are warning residents to stay indoors and off the roads until plows can safely operate. Airports across the Northeast, including in Philadelphia, Albany, and Portland, have already reported delays and cancellations due to the storm’s intensity.
New England Braces for Overnight Impacts
As temperatures plunge overnight, wind chills will make it feel even colder, heightening the risk of frostbite for anyone exposed for extended periods. Utility companies across the region are also preparing for potential power outages as winds increase and heavy snow continues to accumulate.
Residents in Vermont and Maine are being urged to charge devices, stock up on essentials, and prepare for possible power loss through Wednesday morning.
Cold Pattern to Linger Through the Week
Once the storm system exits the coast late Wednesday, forecasters expect frigid Arctic air to settle across much of the Northeast, keeping highs below freezing through the end of the week.
However, calmer weather should return by the weekend as skies gradually clear and temperatures moderate slightly.
As emergency crews continue to work around the clock to keep roads safe, officials are reminding residents to stay off highways during blizzard warnings and check local forecasts for updates.
For continuing storm coverage and regional safety updates, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
