HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration is urging Pennsylvanians to prepare for a significant winter storm expected to sweep across the Commonwealth beginning Saturday night and lasting into Monday morning, bringing heavy snow, bitter cold, and widespread travel disruptions.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service say the storm is likely to dump substantial snowfall across much of Pennsylvania, followed by well-below-average temperatures that could allow hazardous conditions to linger into early next week.
Randy Padfield, director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, said residents should take steps now to protect themselves and their families by monitoring forecasts, adjusting travel plans, stocking food, water, and medications, charging phones, and preparing emergency kits before conditions deteriorate.
State transportation agencies are already mobilizing. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission said crews will work around the clock to treat and clear roadways as conditions allow, while strongly discouraging unnecessary travel during the storm.
Preliminary data from last winter highlights the stakes. On snowy, slushy, or ice-covered roads, Pennsylvania recorded 8,329 crashes, 29 fatalities, and 2,959 injuries. Authorities said 17 of those deaths involved drivers traveling too fast for conditions, and 11 people killed were not wearing seat belts.
Vehicle restrictions are expected to play a central role in the response. Beginning at 12:01 AM on Sunday, January 25, a Tier 4 restriction is planned for all Pennsylvania interstates, the Pennsylvania Turnpike and its extensions, and several other major roadways. Under Tier 4 restrictions, commercial vehicles are prohibited, along with school buses, commercial buses, motor coaches, motorcycles, RVs and motorhomes, and passenger vehicles towing trailers.
Restrictions will be communicated through variable message boards, the 511PA traveler information website at https://www.511pa.com/, and smartphone apps, and may change based on road conditions and reports from first responders and transportation officials.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said motorists should not expect roads to be completely clear during the storm and urged people to stay home if possible, slow down if travel is unavoidable, and allow extra time. Mark Compton, chief executive officer of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, said crews will be working nonstop to keep roadways as safe as possible, while asking drivers to remain alert as conditions change.
The Pennsylvania State Police said troopers will be actively monitoring roadways and responding to incidents. Acting Commissioner George Bivens reminded drivers that state law requires snow and ice to be cleared from vehicles within 24 hours after a storm if it could pose a danger, and that operating a vehicle with obstructed visibility is illegal. Police also stressed compliance with Pennsylvania’s Move Over Law near emergency response areas and noted that headlights are required whenever windshield wipers are in use.
Officials also warned that the cold air following the storm could increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, urging residents to dress in layers, limit time outdoors, avoid overexertion while shoveling, and check on elderly neighbors or others who may need help.
Additional preparedness guidance, including home and vehicle emergency checklists, is available at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/ready. Travelers are encouraged to check real-time road conditions before leaving by visiting 511PA.com, using the 511PA mobile app, or calling 5-1-1.
State agencies said they will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates as conditions evolve. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, use caution throughout the weekend, and follow developments via the MyChesCo Weather Center.
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