Wildfire smoke blanks out western pennsylvania, ohio, west virginia

Thick, surface-based wildfire smoke continues to shroud western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia, prompting a statewide Code Purple air quality alert in the Keystone State.

Smoke to intensify friday, then subside

For the remainder of Friday and into the night, conditions are expected to worsen as a surface high pressure system to the north and a warm front over central Ohio converge, essentially squeezing as much smoke as possible into a narrowly concentrated area across most of the region.

Sensitive groups should avoid all outdoor physical activity, while everyone else should limit strenuous exercise outside. Visibility will remain low, possibly dipping to 1/2 to 1 mile in spots, especially Friday evening.

Clearing expected saturday

Overnight into Saturday morning, the area will remain very smoky, but clearing is anticipated from southwest to northeast beginning during the predawn hours. By 7 a.m., areas southwest of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Interstate 70 corridor should notice improvement in air quality. The surface smoke and visibility are expected to continue moving northeast, with most of the forecast area in the clear by noon Saturday.

Severe Weather Follows Smoke Clearing

As the smoke begins to dissipate, a new weather hazard will emerge, with scattered strong to severe storms anticipated to develop by Saturday afternoon and evening in advance of a cold front. The main threats will be damaging straight-line winds, with several severe thunderstorm warnings likely issued.

Smoke Returns Sunday, then Clears

Storms will exit Saturday night, with winds shifting to a northwest direction on Sunday, bringing in drier and cooler air. This shift could bring back more wildfire smoke and haze, although it doesn't currently look as thick as Friday's conditions. Further updates are expected over the weekend.

Monday Looks Pleasant, with a Slight Haze

Looking ahead to Monday, conditions appear dry and pleasant, though there may be a slight haze lingering in the sky.