Pittsburgh, PA – Thick morning fog and incoming weekend rain are raising concerns for thousands of travelers as the Thanksgiving rush begins across western Pennsylvania. Visibility dropped sharply before sunrise, and forecasters warn that additional slowdowns are likely as a new round of moisture arrives Friday night.
Dense Fog Advisory Creates Early Travel Hazards
A Dense Fog Advisory from the National Weather Service remains in effect until 9 a.m., covering much of western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, and eastern Ohio. Forecasters warn that visibility may fall to one quarter mile or less, especially on major routes such as I-79, I-376, and roadways that run along the Ohio River corridor.
Drivers are encouraged to reduce speed, avoid high beams, and create extra space between vehicles. Sudden pockets of fog, particularly on bridges or at bends in the roadway, may develop without warning.
Conditions Improve This Afternoon Before Weekend Changes Arrive
The dense fog is expected to lift by late morning, giving way to a mainly cloudy afternoon. Temperatures remain mild for November, preventing any risk of freezing.
The break is short-lived. Meteorologists note that a new system will arrive on Friday, bringing increasing clouds and the first chance of rain after 7 a.m.. While early showers will be scattered, the heaviest activity is expected Friday night, when a stronger push of moisture moves through the region.
Friday Night Rain Could Slow Regional Travel
With millions of people on the move for the holiday weekend, the timing of Friday night rain may create slowdowns on busy highways and near airport terminals. Forecasters report that visibility could drop again under the heaviest bands, and wet pavement may reduce travel speeds across the region.
A National Weather Service discussion highlighted that the upcoming system will be warm enough to eliminate any threat of ice. That keeps road surfaces wet—but not slick.
Saturday Shows Improvement After Early Showers
Steady rainfall winds down early Saturday, leaving only a slight chance of lingering drizzle. Skies gradually brighten later in the day as cooler air settles in. Travelers heading into higher elevations toward the Appalachians or north toward the Great Lakes should stay alert, as conditions can shift quickly from valley floors to ridge tops.
Long-range models mentioned in recent NWS briefings point to what some meteorologists are calling a “Winter Tease” developing next week. Between November 25 and December 3, interior parts of New England and the central U.S. could see their first significant snow of the season, potentially affecting connecting flights and long-distance trips.
Sunday Offers the Best Pre-Thanksgiving Travel Window
By Sunday, a ridge of high pressure brings clearer skies and calm weather. Sunshine and temperatures in the low 50s make it one of the most favorable travel days before the holiday begins.
Five-Day Forecast for Pittsburgh
Friday: Fog early; rain chances grow; high near 55
Saturday: Slight early rain; high near 49
Sunday: Sunny; high near 53
Monday: Mostly cloudy; high near 54
Tuesday: Rain likely; high near 49
Conclusion
Western Pennsylvania begins the holiday travel period with unsettling fog and a wet weekend ahead. While freezing temperatures are not a concern, reduced visibility and steady rain could slow plans for those heading out on Friday night or early Saturday. Travelers may want to adjust schedules and stay tuned to updated National Weather Service forecasts as Thanksgiving approaches.
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