Winter Storm Warnings in Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton sits in the Wyoming Valley of northeastern Pennsylvania, where cold air funneling off the Pocono highlands and moisture from the Atlantic coast can combine to produce significant snowfall. Across the 13 years analyzed from 2012 through 2024, the city averaged 40.0 inches (101.5 cm) of snowfall per year — enough to make winter preparedness a genuine seasonal priority for residents.
The heaviest snow tends to arrive during February, January, and December, in that order, when average winter lows hover around 23.3 °F (−4.9 °C) and conditions are most favorable for accumulating snow. Days meeting the threshold for a heavy-snow event average roughly one every two years, so when forecasters do issue a warning, it reflects a notably unusual situation worth taking seriously.
A winter storm warning for Scranton signals that forecasters expect snowfall rates, accumulation totals, or accompanying ice to reach levels that will significantly disrupt travel and daily life. It is the highest-tier winter storm alert — above a watch or advisory. Keep in mind that exact issuance thresholds differ by region; what triggers a warning in Scranton may differ from criteria used in coastal, southern, or mountainous areas of the country.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 40 in (101.5 cm) |
| Snowiest months | February, January, December |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 23.3°F (−4.9°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.5 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Scranton within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Scranton winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Scranton right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Scranton, Pennsylvania. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Scranton get winter storm warnings often?
Scranton sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Scranton?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Scranton?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Pennsylvania authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Binghamton, NY
- Winter storm warning in Allentown, PA
- Winter storm warning in Trenton, NJ
- Winter storm warning in Philadelphia, PA
- Winter storm warning in Newark, NJ
- Winter storm warning in Harrisburg, PA
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.