From the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Ahead of anticipated winter weather across much of the state on Saturday, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is advising motorists to avoid unnecessary travel and to exercise caution when driving. Additionally, PennDOT will implement various speed and vehicle restrictions throughout the storm.
Snow is expected to begin in the morning in southwest PA, spreading east and north, followed by freezing rain throughout much of the state. PennDOT crews will actively pre-treat roadways where necessary ahead of the storm to help prevent ice from forming a bond with the pavement. However, salt does not resolve all risks, and drivers may encounter icy spots on the roadway. With freezing temperatures, roads that look wet may actually be icy, and extra caution is needed when approaching bridges and highway ramps where ice can form.
Restrictions are planned for certain vehicles during the storm, and will be communicated via variable message boards, the 511PA traveler information website and smartphone apps. Motorists can also sign up for personalized alerts on the website. Restrictions will be lifted as quickly as possible when conditions are safe. Restrictions can be changed based on conditions on the roadways, and reports from first responders, law enforcement and PennDOT and PA Turnpike personnel.
The following vehicle restrictions are planned to go into effect at 12:00 PM on Saturday, February 15, in accordance with Tier 1 of the commonwealth’s weather event vehicle restriction plan.
- Interstate 80 from I-79 to Exit 173.
- I-99, entire length.
The following vehicle restrictions are planned to go into effect at 4:00 PM on Saturday, February 15, in accordance with Tier 1 of the commonwealth’s weather event vehicle restriction plan.
- I-80 from Exit 173 to I-81.
- I-81 from I-78 to I-80.
- I-180, entire length.
Under Tier 1 restrictions, the following vehicles are not permitted on affected roadways:
- Tractors without trailers.
- Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded enclosed trailers, open trailers or tank trailers.
- Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded tandem trailers.
- Enclosed unloaded or lightly loaded cargo delivery trucks/box trucks that meet the definition of a CMV.
- Passenger vehicles (cars, SUV’s, pickup trucks, etc.) towing trailers.
- Recreational vehicles/motorhomes.
- School buses, commercial buses and motor coaches.
- Motorcycles.
