So, you're looking at the Pittsburgh extended weather forecast and wondering if you should actually bother shoveling the driveway or just wait for the inevitable slush-fest. Honestly, living in Western PA means you've probably developed a healthy skepticism toward any forecast that goes out further than forty-eight hours.
It's cold. Specifically, 23°F cold right now.
The wind is coming out of the west at about 7 mph, making it feel more like 14°F. That’s the "real" Pittsburgh—the one that bites at your ears when you're walking from the parking garage to the office.
The Immediate Outlook: Snow and Shivers
Looking at the next few days, we aren't exactly heading for a tropical reprieve. Monday, January 19, is looking like a bit of a mess. Expect snow showers with a high of 24°F, but here’s the kicker: the temperature is going to tank to 4°F Monday night.
If you have plans for Tuesday, brace yourself. It's going to be one of those bright, deceptive "partly sunny" days where the high only hits 16°F. It’s the kind of cold that makes your car make sounds you didn't know it could make.
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Then comes Wednesday. The temperature jumps up to 36°F—practically a heatwave—but it brings more snow showers with a 35% chance of precipitation. This back-and-forth is basically the Pittsburgh brand.
Why the Forecast Feels Like a Rollercoaster
There’s a reason the Pittsburgh extended weather forecast feels so erratic. We are stuck in a geographical tug-of-war. To our northwest, we have the cold air coming down from the Great Lakes. To our southeast, unseasonably warm ridges are trying to push up from the Atlantic.
We’re the "downstream" target.
According to recent NWS briefings, January is traditionally our snowiest month. While we started the month a bit dry, the late-month patterns are favoring more "active" storm tracks. This is largely thanks to the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). When the NAO stays in a negative phase, which it’s leaning toward right now, we see a much higher chance of those quick-hitting snow systems.
Basically, don't put the salt bag away yet.
What to Expect for the Rest of January
If you're planning for the final week of the month, here’s the breakdown based on current data:
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- Thursday, Jan 22: Partly sunny, high of 34°F. A decent day for a walk if you're bundled up.
- Friday, Jan 23: Snow showers return. High 28°F, Low 6°F.
- Saturday, Jan 24: It gets brutal again. High of only 13°F. This is "stay inside and order Primanti's" weather.
- Monday, Jan 26: Keep an eye on this one. There is a heavy snow storm in the cards with a 75% chance of precipitation and 100% humidity.
That Monday storm could be the biggest event of the month. We're looking at a high of 20°F and heavy accumulation potential. If you've been procrastinating on getting new tires, this is your sign.
The Long Game: February and Beyond
The Farmers’ Almanac recently used the phrase "Chill, Snow, Repeat" for our 2026 winter, and so far, they aren't wrong. They predicted a wild ride, and the data backs it up. We’re currently in a weak La Niña transition. Usually, that means warmer weather, but the "Polar Vortex" (yeah, that dreaded term) is expected to make several guest appearances through February.
The NWS also noted that while we've had a snowy start—the 18th snowiest season of all time to date—the total rainfall might actually stay slightly below average. It's a weird contradiction. Lots of white stuff, not a lot of liquid.
Actionable Winter Prep for Pittsburghers
Since the Pittsburgh extended weather forecast is showing a significant drop in temps and a heavy storm for the 26th, here is what you actually need to do:
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- Check your pipes: When we hit those 4°F lows on Tuesday and the following Monday, those exterior walls get dangerous. Keep the cabinet doors open under the sink.
- Watch the river levels: The NWS is reporting a 10% to 25% chance of the rivers exceeding 18 feet in any given week this month. If you park at the Mon Wharf, keep your alerts on.
- The 26th is the pivot: That heavy snow storm isn't a "maybe" anymore; the confidence levels are rising. Make sure your snow blower actually has gas in it before Sunday night.
- Hydrate your skin: With humidity dropping to 33% on some of these cold days, the Pittsburgh "winter itch" is real.
Winter in the 412 is a test of patience. We've got gray skies, fluctuating temps, and just enough snow to keep things annoying. But hey, at least we aren't dealing with those June floods right now, right? Keep an eye on the sky and keep your shovel handy.