Blowing Snow Causes Drifting, Cancels Flights In Centre County

Strong wind gusts and snow squalls created a difficult morning commute for drivers in Centre County early Friday.

Blustery crosswinds blowing across a stretch of Interstate 99 near Skytop created near-whiteout conditions for some drivers.

Officials at University Park Airport in Benner Township told WJAC-TV Friday that even with crews working nonstop to clear the tarmac and runway, multiple flights were delayed or canceled.

Emergency officials across Centre County are urging residents to be prepared for power outages, as well as using extra caution if they drive after dark Friday.

"We have a concern about the blowing and the drifting,” said Centre Region EMA Director Shawn Kauffman. “The road conditions change rapidly and the drivers need to be concerned; they can be going along and the roads are dry, and they come around the bend and the roads are ice-covered and slippery because of the drifting snow."

Several Happy Valley communities, including Ferguson and College townships, as well as Penn State officials in University Park, are asking drivers to move their vehicles from non-designated lots so crews can clear the drifting snow.