Winter Storm Alert: Pennsylvania Braces for Holiday Travel Chaos

A winter storm is heading towards Pennsylvania, coinciding with one of the busiest travel days of the holiday season. PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission are taking proactive measures to ensure road safety by implementing restrictions on major highways and interstates.

Travel Advisory

• Monitor Weather Conditions: Drivers are urged to stay informed about the weather.
• Avoid Unnecessary Travel: If possible, stay home.
• Exercise Caution: If travel is essential, drive with extra care.

Road Condition Updates

The agencies provide real-time updates on road conditions and restrictions through their website and app, 511PA.

Pre-Storm Preparations

• Road Treatment: Crews are pre-treating roads with salt to prevent ice formation.
• Salt Limitations: Salt does not guarantee safe roads. Drivers should expect icy spots, particularly on bridges and highway ramps.
• Freezing Temperatures: Even wet roads may be icy due to freezing conditions.

Restriction Details

• First Phase (10 a.m. Friday):
• Affected Areas: Interstate 81 south of I-83, all interstates west of I-81, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike's I-76 and I-70, and all western turnpike extensions.
• Second Phase (2 p.m. Friday):
• Affected Areas: I-81 north of I-83, Route 33, U.S. 22 between I-78 and Route 33, and all interstates east of I-81, including the eastern turnpike extensions.

Vehicle Restrictions

• Allowed Vehicles: Loaded single trailers with chains or approved alternate traction devices.
• Prohibited Vehicles: School buses, commercial buses, motor coaches, motorcycles, RVs, motorhomes, and passenger vehicles towing trailers.
• Speed Limits: Reduced to 45 mph for all vehicles in restricted areas.
• Commercial Vehicles: Unaffected commercial vehicles must stay in the right lane.

Travel Impact

• AAA Projections: Nearly 1.4 million Philadelphia-area residents are expected to travel during the year-end holiday period, with over 1.2 million (90%) driving.
• Busy Travel Day: Friday is anticipated to be one of the busiest travel days of the season.
• Weather Impact: Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are likely to affect both road and air travel later in the day.

Safety Tips for Drivers

• Slow Down: Reduce speed and increase following distance.
• Use Headlights and Hazard Lights: When visibility is low.
• Avoid Distracted Driving: Stay focused on the road.
• Carry Emergency Supplies: Be prepared for unexpected situations.

Last Winter's Statistics

• Crashes: 8,329
• Fatalities: 29
• Injuries: 2,959

Many of these incidents were linked to speeding for conditions or failure to wear a seat belt.

Real-Time Updates

Drivers can find a full list of impacted roadways and real-time updates through PennDOT resources and traveler information systems as conditions evolve.