Montoursville, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has lifted the speed limit and right-lane-only commercial vehicle restrictions that were in place on several roadways in the region.
Due to the winter storm impacting the region, speed limits were reduced to 45 mph on Interstates 80 and 180 in the region. All speeds are restored to their usual posted limits.
PennDOT is still treating roadways in the area and will continue until roads are clear.
Montoursville, PA – Motorists are advised that Interstate 80 eastbound is closed at the Mifflinville/Mainville Exit # 242 in Mifflin Township, Columbia County due to a vehicle crash.
Eastbound motorists are able to utilize the Exit #242 on and off ramps for a short detour. The eastbound lanes are expected to reopen later this evening.
Motorists are urged to drive with caution in the area.
Olean- Shirley Ann Nitsche “Loving Mother, Grandmother & Sister”
Shirley A. Nitsche of Rowland Ave passed away on December 22, 2025, at Buffalo General Hospital following an illness.
Shirley was born on August 18, 1949, in Olean and was the daughter of Robert William and Sabina Ann Kwiatkowski Nitsche.
Shirley was a 1967 graduate of Walsh High School. She worked at Lucia’s Restaurant Supper Club for 22 years right out of high school. She owned and operated Bread Sticks on East State Street for 22 years. Shirley movies to Florida where she ran a restaurant called “Smugglers” for 15 years until moving back to Olean in 2012.
Shirley enjoyed shooting pool and playing darts. She loves her pets, especially her dogs; Zeus and Athena.
Joseph A. Floravit, 96, of Spruce Street, St. Marys, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025, following a brief illness.
He was born on November 2, 1929 in Force, PA, a son of the late Thomas Floravit, Sr. and Anita Volpe Floravit.
On June 29, 1957, he married the late Dale S. Kraus, who preceded him in death on August 1, 2019. Together they shared more than 62 years of marriage.
Joe was a lifelong resident of the area and member of St. Marys Church. He retired from Stackpole after more than 30 years of service. With a great love for Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, Joe could often be found watching old country western movies. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandson.
A Flood Watch has been issued for Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Genesee, Niagara, Erie, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties from Sunday December 28, at 1:00 p.m. to Monday, December 29 at 4:00 p.m.
During a flood, water levels and rate at which the water is flowing can quickly change. Most flood fatalities occur in vehicles. You don’t know how deep the water is. Even when water recedes, the ground may be unstable.
Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. Turn around, don’t drown!
NEVER drive through barricades.
Rising and fast floodwaters can sweep vehicles away or cause you to lose control of a vehicle.
Stay out of floodwaters! Floodwaters hide dangers that can cause sickness, injury, or even death: animals and insects, live wires, dangerous chemicals, sewage, harmful bacteria, and sharp objects and debris.
Continue monitoring updates to the forecast via local media or your nearest National Weather Service Office by visiting www.weather.gov and search for your zip code.
Nancy Johnston 91, of 708 Second Avenue, entered into God’s mercy and justice on Thursday December 25, 2025, at UPMC-Hamot, Erie, following a brief illness.
She was born December 20, 1934, in Johnsonburg, daughter of the late John “Rufus” and Margaret Pendl Johnston. She graduated from Holy Rosary Elementary and Johnsonburg High School class of 1952. She was first employed by G.C. Murphy Co. Then in her senior year she was hired by the New York & Pennsylvania Co. She was a member of Holy Rosary Parish, Senior Choir and the Sodality of Our Lady. In 1967 she attended a Diocesan Cursillo Weekend in Erie which refocused her entire life.
While working with the Religious Ed Program in the late 1960’s, she was enticed to gather a group of students and provide a Folk Choir for a special Youth Liturgy. Due to the extraordinary talents of those students, and favorable response of the pastor and parishioners, the group then played for parish Masses and was invited to introduce Liturgical Folk Music to area parishes and ecumenically as well. Eventually a second group emerged under another director, and she returned to the Traditional Music ministry with the Senior Choir.
George C. Nelson, 65, of JoJo Road, passed away Tuesday (December 23, 2025) at his residence surrounded by his family.
Born March 13, 1960, in Kane, he was the son of Clifford “Skeeter” and K Jean Simpson Nelson. In 1998, he met his partner of 27 years, Sally Anderson, who survives.
A lifelong resident of Kane, George grew up working for the family business, CW Hardware, before becoming the owner. Outside of work, he could be found working in the garage or spending time with his family, of whom he was incredibly proud.
In addition to his partner, he is survived by his daughter, Jessie (Eric) Bond of Kane; his son, Kyle Nelson of Indianapolis, IN; three grandchildren, Mason Bond, Ava Bond, and Lucas Bond of Kane, four sisters, Cynthia (Wayne) Miller of Harrisburg, Mary Jean (Raymond) Butterfield, Lisa (Roger) Wilson and Amy (Ike) Erdman, all of Kane; his partner’s son, Calvin Pfeil, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Private funeral services will be held at the Cummings Funeral Home, Inc with The Rev. William O’Brien officiating. Burial will be in St. Callistus Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.
Online Condolences can be expressed at cummingsfh.com.
Montoursville, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, PennDOT is temporarily reducing the speed limit on several roadways in the region.
PennDOT is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, but those who must head out will see speeds reduced to 45 mph on the following highways:
Interstate 80 between the Ohio state line and mile marker 247 (Columbia / Luzerne County line.
Interstate 180 entire length.
On roadways with speed restrictions, commercial vehicles not affected by restrictions on these or other roadways must move to the right lane.
Although PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, and they will not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear.
Martha R. DeFilippo, 84, of East Main Street Bradford, passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Born October 3, 1941, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Donald E. and Catherine (Place) Good. She was a 1959 graduate of St. Bernard School.
On May 19, 1962, in Smethport, she married Geno M. DeFilippo who preceded her in death on May 8, 2024.
Martha was employed at Zippo Manufacturing for over 25 years.
She enjoyed taking walks, reading and going to bingo. Her greatest joy was being with family, especially her grandchildren.
Surviving are four daughters, Kay Stull (John Perry), of Gerry NY, Christina DeFilippo, Cynthia (Dave) Robinson, and Regina Gann (Don Potts), one son, Anthony DeFilippo (Jennifer Pecora), all of Bradford, 22 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, and 10 great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Clearfield, PA –The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that it expects Route 220 southbound in between the Lock Haven and Mill Hall/Flemington exits in Clinton County to remain closed for several hours due to a commercial vehicle rollover blocking both lanes of travel.
While the road is closed, traffic will exit Route 220 southbound at Lock Haven and follow Routes 120,150, and 2015 (Mill Hall Road) to reconnect with Route 220 southbound.
Although PennDOT crews are treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, not complete free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops, the roads are clear, and the conditions warrant lifting the detour.
Denise A. Simmons, 64, of 943 Plymouth Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully Thursday, December 25, 2025 at her residence with her sister-in-law, Beth Nissel, by her side. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.
Richard A. Hedlund, 85, of 2470 Hollywood Road, Weedville, passed away at UPMC Mercy Hospital following injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
He was born March 7, 1940, in Ridgway, son of the late Carl and Elna Yort Hedlund. He was a lifelong resident of the area, attended Kersey Schools, and retired from IPM after thirteen years with the company.
Richard is survived by two daughters: Darlene Gontero (Byron) of Weedville and Patricia Rung of Johnsonburg; a son, Jay Hedlund (Melinda) of Weedville; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; eight great-great grandchildren; and three brothers: Wayne Hedlund (Jackie) Dennis Hedlund (Azelea), and Roger Hedlund.
Clearfield, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, PennDOT is temporarily reducing the speed limit on several roadways in the region.
PennDOT is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, but those who must head out will see speeds reduced to 45 mph on the following highways:
Interstates 80 between I-79 and exit 133/Kylertown.
The entirety of Interstate 99.
Route 322/22 between State College in Centre County and Lewistown in Mifflin County.
On roadways with speed restrictions, commercial vehicles not affected by restrictions on these, or other roadways must move to the right lane.
Although PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, and they will not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear.
Clearfield, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is temporarily prohibiting Commercial Motor Vehicles more than 10,000 pounds in weight from traveling on Route 6 between Port Allegany and Smethport in McKean County to improve safety and avoid lengthy delays along Route 6.
The detour uses Route 155, Route 446, and Route 46. This restriction is being communicated via the variable message boards posted along the detour route and through the DriveWyze app, a mobile tool for professional drivers that offers free safety alerts.
Although PennDOT crews are treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops, the roads are clear, and the conditions warrant lifting the detour.
Clearfield, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, PennDOT is temporarily reducing the speed limit on several roadways in the region.
PennDOT is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, but those who must head out will see speeds reduced to 45 mph on the following highways:
Interstates 80 between I-79 and exit 133/Kylertown.
On roadways with speed restrictions, commercial vehicles not affected by restrictions on these, or other roadways must move to the right lane.
Although PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, and they will not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear.
Snow, Ice, High Winds, and Bitter Cold Forecast Across Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG – With Pennsylvania and much of the Northeast facing a substantial post-Christmas winter storm – including heavy snow, ice, strong winds, and dangerously cold temperatures – the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is urging residents to prepare now for potential power outages and to take steps to stay safe during severe winter weather.
Residents are also reminded to use caution when traveling near utility crews working to restore service. Slowing down and giving crews plenty of space helps protect workers and the public during storm response efforts.
Darya “Dusty” Randall Byham, 77, of Charles St., St. Marys (formerly of Kane) passed away Tuesday (December 23, 2025) at her residence with her family at her side.
Born June 10, 1948, in Webster, NY, she was the daughter of the late Robert Baylard and Betty Reinisch O’Boyle. On January 29, 1972, she married James Byham (who preceded her in death) at Tabor Lutheran Church in Kane. They met in that same church and went on to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2022.
Dusty graduated from high school in New Canaan, CT. She went on to graduate from Alderson Broaddus University with a Bachelor Degree in Psychology. She spent most of her life as a social worker in both McKean and Elk Counties helping both children and adults. She also worked at the Kane Manor for several years where she had many fond memories working with the community. Dusty later retired from Pinecrest Manor as the Admissions Coordinator. Dusty was a very caring, selfless person. She loved to make other people happy, especially her children and grandchildren. She was beautiful both inside and out. She and Jim were always together. They were truly made for each other. The two of them very much enjoyed the years they lived and raised their children in Kane.
The Community Education Center’s Leadership Elk and Cameron program’s (LEC) monthly session focused on arts & education. The day started at the St. Marys High School with Superintendent Harley Ramsey and Assistant Superintendent Chrissy Kuhar. The participants rotated through 5 activities related to leadership as well as teaching them useful facts about the St Marys Area School District. They also received a tour of the many programs the school has to offer. The class then traveled to the CEC to learn what the CEC has to offer as well as the Dickinson Center, Northern PA Regional College, and IU9. Lunch was sponsored by Northern PA Regional College and provided by Taco Inc.
Patrick James SAWYER, 52, of Wellsville, NY, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer at the Palliative Care Unit at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester.
Born October 30, 1973, in Wellsville, he was the son of James L. and Sandra E. Wright Sawyer.
A 1992 graduate of Wellsville High School, he earned a degree in Computer Information Technology from JCC Cattaraugus Campus in 1994. Patrick was a former Assistant Store Manager at Giant Food Market in Cuba from 1996-2000 and then worked as a Project Manager and Corporate Training Consultant from 2000-2003 at Adelphia Communications and then became an Instructor for Adelphia University until 2006.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service State College PA 215 PM EST Thu Dec 25 2025 …WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON FRIDAY TO 7 AM EST SATURDAY…
* WHAT…Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations up to two inches and ice accumulations up to two tenths of an inch.
* WHERE…A portion of central Pennsylvania.
* WHEN…From noon Friday to 7 AM EST Saturday.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
Rita M. Hulings, 81, of St. Marys, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on February 20, 1944 in St. Marys, PA, a daughter of the late Arthur and Helen Rucinski Gerber.
Rita was Catholic by faith and a graduate of Central High School, class of 1961. Together with her late companion, Lenny, Rita and Lenny would often spend time at Howard’s campground where they enjoyed campfires and the great outdoors. When she wasn’t camping, Rita could often be found curled up with a blanket, enjoying a good Lifetime movie. She enjoyed going for rides in the car, and never turned down the chance to enjoy a hamburger from McDonald’s with her granddaughters. Affectionately known as Grammie by all who knew and loved her, Rita will be remembered for her tenacious spirit and spunk. She earned the affections of the aides and staff alike during her time at Elk Haven, and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Drivers urged to watch weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel.
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 winter weather expected across Pennsylvania starting Friday morning, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) are planning to implement vehicle restrictions across Pennsylvania’s Interstate network. The agencies are also advising motorists to watch weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel if possible and to exercise caution when driving.
Precipitation is expected to begin as freezing rain in the western portion of the state late Friday morning, with all of Pennsylvania seeing snow or ice by evening. The storm will begin as snow in central PA, turning to sleet and freezing rain. The eastern regions of the state will see more snow, with northeast PA receiving the most: 3 to 6 inches, with up to 8 inches in some areas. After the storm has completely moved through on Saturday morning, temperatures throughout most of the state will remain at or below freezing.
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 during the early stages of a storm. 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 personnel.
Winter Storm Watch issued December 24 at 1:19PM EST until December 27 at 10:00AM EST by NWS Binghamton NY
* WHAT…Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow and sleet accumulations between 4 and 8 inches and ice accumulations around one tenth of an inch possible.
* WHERE…In New York, Chemung, Schuyler, and Steuben Counties. In Pennsylvania, Bradford, Luzerne, and Wyoming Counties.
* WHEN…From Friday afternoon through Saturday morning.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening commute.
INSTRUCTIONS: Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.
