Key Takeaways
- A major ice event is expected to impact the region on Friday afternoon, with ice storm warnings and winter weather advisories in effect from 10 AM to 7 AM Saturday
- Travel is strongly discouraged unless necessary, and drivers should be prepared for slick roads and possible power outages
- PennDOT has issued preliminary travel restrictions, including speed reductions to 45 mph and Tier 3 restrictions on major roadways
- Drivers should slow down, use caution, and follow winter driving tips to stay safe on the roads
Introduction to the Winter Storm
A major ice event is expected to impact the region on Friday afternoon, with the National Weather Service (NWS) upgrading winter storm watches to ice storm warnings and winter weather advisories across the coverage area. As of 2:15 PM, the NWS announced that these warnings and advisories will go into effect by 10 AM and Noon Friday and will expire at 7 AM Saturday. The affected areas include Elk, Jefferson, Clearfield, Cambria, and Somerset counties, which are under ice storm warnings, and Cameron, Centre, Blair, Bedford, and Huntingdon counties, which are under winter weather advisories.
Expected Ice Accumulation and Travel Conditions
The NWS predicts that most of the region can expect to receive anywhere between a tenth of an inch to a quarter of an inch of ice, with some localized areas potentially seeing three tenths to half an inch of ice in extreme cases. Travel is strongly discouraged unless necessary, as conditions will be slick on the roads leading to very rough travel conditions Friday afternoon into the evening. Drivers who must travel should keep an extra flashlight, blanket, jacket, food, and water in their vehicle in case of an emergency and prepare for possible power outages.
Preliminary Travel Restrictions
Ahead of Friday’s weather event, PennDOT has issued a list of preliminary travel restrictions on major roadways, including speed reductions to 45 mph. Tier 3 restrictions will begin at 10 AM Friday on Interstate 81, south of I-83, and all Pennsylvania interstates west of I-81, including the PA Turnpike I-76, PA Turnpike I-70, and all western PA Turnpike extensions. Additional Tier 3 restrictions will begin at 2 PM Friday on I-81, north of I-83, Route 33, and U.S. 22 between I-78 to Route 33. These restrictions prohibit commercial vehicles, except loaded single trailers with chains or approved Alternate Traction Devices, and all school buses, commercial buses, motor coaches, motorcycles, RVs/motorhomes, and passenger vehicles towing trailers.
Winter Driving Tips
To stay safe on the roads during the winter storm, drivers should follow winter driving tips, including slowing down gradually and driving at a speed that suits conditions. Drivers should turn on their headlights and hazard lights if caught in a snow squall, stay in their lane, and increase their following distance. It is also essential to stay alert, keep looking as far ahead as possible, and be patient. Drivers should not drive distracted, use their defroster and wipers, and keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice. During whiteouts, drivers should come to a complete stop only when they can safely pull off the roadway and not stop in the flow of traffic.
Conclusion and Final Preparations
As the region prepares for the impending winter storm, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest forecast and travel restrictions. Drivers should be prepared for slick roads, possible power outages, and follow winter driving tips to stay safe. The story will be updated to reflect the exact timing of the storm as the forecast continues to be tracked. By taking necessary precautions and following the guidelines outlined by the NWS and PennDOT, drivers can minimize their risk of being involved in an accident and stay safe during the winter storm.
