Snow to be followed by sleet and freezing rain and ice Wednesday into Thursday, vehicle restrictions planned

Go to 511PA.com or the 511PA smartphone app for the most up-to-date information on weather impacts and vehicle restrictions

Harrisburg, PA – Ahead of anticipated winter weather across the state Wednesday into Thursday, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and the PA Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) are advising motorists to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm and to exercise caution when driving. Additionally, PennDOT and the PA Turnpike will implement various speed and vehicle restrictions throughout the storm. 

Beginning Wednesday morning, the storm will bring a band of snow across the state, followed by sleet and freezing rain. Temperatures below freezing will result in potentially icy conditions. PennDOT and PA Turnpike 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.

According to the National Weather Service, gusty winds could bring down trees and power lines and cause power outages. Everyone should take the time to plan how they would stay safe in a power outage and ensure that electrical devices are fully charged.

Power outages can lead some people to use supplemental heating sources in an effort to stay warm or prevent frozen water pipes in their homes. To protect against carbon monoxide poisoning, never try to heat your home using a generator, stove, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, garage or near a window.

Carbon monoxide is created when combustible materials burn incompletely and can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Often called “the silent killer,” it is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that can incapacitate victims before they’re aware they’ve been exposed. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu and include nausea, headaches, dizziness, disorientation and fatigue.  If you suspect you’ve been exposed to carbon monoxide, leave the home or building immediately and call 9-1-1 or seek medical attention.

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.