Western Pennsylvania school districts announced that many schools will shift to remote instruction or remain closed on Friday, Feb. 6, as a winter storm brings snow, sub‑zero wind chills and hazardous travel conditions across the region.
Why it matters
Snowfall of 1–3 inches is expected in the Pittsburgh metro area, with 2–5 inches possible in higher elevations east of the city. A winter weather advisory covers the Laurel Highlands and the higher terrain of Fayette, Indiana and Westmoreland counties, whereas an extreme cold warning targets counties north and east of Allegheny. Wind chills are projected to plunge to 15‑25 °F below zero early Saturday, easing only slightly to 10‑20 °F below zero by evening, and remaining below zero through Sunday morning. These conditions threaten school transportation safety, increase the risk of icy road surfaces and reduce visibility, prompting districts to keep students home.
What could happen next
If the storm intensifies as forecast, additional districts—particularly those at higher elevations—may extend closures into Saturday. Parents and students are advised to monitor the evolving weather alerts and the interactive radar for real‑time updates. Should visibility continue to deteriorate after 10:00 a.m., road crews may prioritize major routes, potentially delaying travel for those in more remote communities. The cold weather advisory and extreme cold warning could as well prompt public facilities to adjust heating schedules and issue health advisories for vulnerable populations.
For the latest list of affected schools, visit the closures page and refresh frequently. Snow and visibility details are available in Pittsburgh’s Action Weather forecast, and the winter weather advisory can be reviewed at the alerts portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which schools are affected?
Many schools across Western Pennsylvania have announced remote instruction or closures for Friday; the specific list is posted on the district’s closures page and is updated throughout the day.
How much snow is expected?
The forecast calls for 1–3 inches of snow in the Pittsburgh area, with higher elevations east of the city potentially receiving 2–5 inches.
What safety measures are in place?
A winter weather advisory has been issued for heavy snow in the Laurel Highlands and higher terrain of Fayette, Indiana and Westmoreland counties, while a winter storm warning covers Garrett County. An extreme cold warning and cold weather advisory address the sub‑zero wind chills expected through Sunday.
How are you planning to stay informed about the evolving weather and school status?
