Erie, PA – Northwestern Pennsylvania braces for heavy lake effect snow, with snowfall rates reaching up to 2 inches per hour. The National Weather Service has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning for Erie County, in effect until 4 p.m. Thursday. Forecasters predict snow accumulations exceeding 12 inches, with isolated totals up to 18 inches in some areas. Gusty winds of up to 45 mph could further complicate conditions, leading to reduced visibility and potential power outages.