Ice Storm Warning Issued For Pennsylvania, Ohio And West Virginia, US: Hazardous Conditions And Travel Disruptions Expected

Published on December 26, 2025

An ice storm is coming that will hit some areas of Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia, US starting Friday, December 26, 2025. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned several areas of ice storms, while the freezing rain will make it difficult, if not impossible, to travel, and also there will be possible power blackouts. The storm will hit right at the time of the post-Christmas rush and thus will create a lot of struggles along and across major routes and areas.

Key Areas Affected by the Ice Storm

The National Weather Service has pinpointed several areas in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia where the most severe impacts are anticipated. The Pittsburgh region in Pennsylvania, including counties like Venango, Forest, Clarion, Jefferson, Armstrong and Indiana, will experience the highest risk. The ice storm warning is in effect from 10:00 AM on Friday until 7:00 AM on Saturday, with forecast ice accumulations ranging from two-tenths to three-tenths of an inch, potentially causing hazardous travel conditions.

Dangerous Conditions Expected Across Key Tourist Destinations

Several popular tourist destinations are expected to be severely impacted by this weather event. Areas like Pittsburgh, Columbus, Cleveland, and Morgantown, which are known for their winter attractions, will face significant ice and freezing rain. For tourists heading to these regions, such as those visiting ski resorts, nature parks, and cultural landmarks, the conditions may disrupt their travel plans and pose a safety risk.

The NWS advises that even small amounts of ice accumulation can lead to significant dangers, particularly on untreated surfaces, bridges, overpasses, and hilly terrain. This could make travel nearly impossible in the hardest-hit areas. Popular destinations like Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania, Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio and Coopers Rock State Forest in West Virginia could all experience hazardous travel conditions due to the icy conditions.

Power Outages and Tree Damage Likely

With ice accumulations near or above one-quarter of an inch, the NWS has warned of increased risks of tree limb failures and power outages. Areas under the ice storm warning, including western and central Pennsylvania, are expected to face significant power disruptions as the weight of ice on trees could cause branches to break and down power lines. Utility companies like FirstEnergy have issued safety alerts, urging residents and visitors in affected regions to monitor their outage maps closely and report any downed lines immediately.

Travel Disruptions: What Drivers Need to Know

Transportation officials are gearing up for the combination of freezing rain and high post-Christmas traffic. PennDOT (Pennsylvania Department of Transportation) has already announced Tier 3 vehicle restrictions that will begin at 10:00 AM on Friday, December 26, on major routes, including I-81 south of I-83 and all Pennsylvania interstates west of I-81. The restrictions will be extended later in the day to other key corridors, including I-81 north of I-83 and Route 33.

Despite salt treatments on major roads, officials warn that bridges and ramps will remain particularly dangerous due to their rapid freezing. Drivers are urged to check road conditions frequently and prepare for unexpected delays as the freezing rain begins.

Safety Protocols for Tourists and Residents

For tourists in the affected areas, safety should be the top priority. The NWS advises delaying any unnecessary travel until conditions improve. For those who must drive, here are key safety protocols to follow:

1. Avoid Driving in Icy Conditions: If possible, delay travel, especially during the onset of the freezing rain when roads can quickly become slippery.
2. Check Road Conditions Before You Go: Regularly monitor 511 services and road condition updates for the most accurate information on travel disruptions.
3. Drive Slowly and Carefully: Ensure you allow extra time for travel, drive at reduced speeds, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Ice forms faster on bridges and overpasses, so exercise extreme caution in these areas.
4. Prepare for Power Outages: Charge your mobile devices, ensure flashlights are within reach, and stock up on basic supplies such as food, water, and medications. For households with medical equipment that requires electricity, make sure backup power sources are available.

Stay Informed and Be Prepared

As the ice storm moves through Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, the National Weather Service urges residents and visitors to stay informed of weather updates. Given the fast-changing nature of these conditions, it’s crucial to heed warnings and prepare for disruptions. By following recommended safety protocols, including monitoring road conditions and being prepared for power outages, tourists can ensure their safety while travelling through these affected regions.

Without a doubt, winter holidays are the busiest traveling times and on top of that, if there is a bad weather condition, the whole situation becomes even more complex and troublesome. It is, therefore, good to have weather alerts from the local offices and taking precautions as necessary. This way, one can still be able to treat this storm as a danger but at a lesser risk of facing the issue.