Winter Storm Causes Interstate Closures and Speed Restrictions in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is urging drivers to stay off the roads as a powerful winter storm continues to wreak havoc across northwestern Pennsylvania. Hazardous conditions have led to multiple interstate closures and ongoing speed limit reductions, causing significant disruptions for commuters and travelers.
Here's a breakdown of the current situation:
Closed Interstates:
- Interstate 79: Both directions from the I-80 interchange to Exit 130 (Route 358, Greenville/Sandy Lake) in Mercer County.
- Interstate 86: Westbound from Exit 3 (Route 89, Wattsburg/North East) to the I-90 interchange.
- Interstate 90: Westbound from Exit 41 (Route 89, North East) to Exit 32 (Route 290/430, Wesleyville/Bayfront Connector) in Erie County.
Speed Limit Reductions: PennDOT has temporarily lowered speed limits to 45 mph on several major routes to ensure safety:
- Interstate 79: From I-80 to its northern endpoint in Erie County.
- Interstate 80: From the Ohio state line to Exit 97 (Route 219, Dubois/Brockway).
- Interstate 86: From the I-90 interchange to the New York state line.
- Interstate 90: From the Ohio state line to the New York state line.
- Interstate 376: From the I-80 interchange to Exit 13A (Route 224, Poland) in Lawrence County.
Commercial Vehicle Lane Restriction: All unaffected commercial vehicles must remain in the right lane while these speed limits are in effect.
PennDOT's Warning: PennDOT reminds drivers that even with continuous plowing and treatment, roads may still be hazardous due to snow and ice. Crews will work tirelessly until the storm subsides and routes are fully cleared.
Stay Informed: For the latest updates, drivers are encouraged to visit 511PA.com, download the 511PA app, call 5-1-1, or follow regional alerts on X (formerly Twitter). Residents can also subscribe to traffic and news updates for Crawford, Erie, Forest, Mercer, Venango, and Warren counties at pa.gov/DOTDistrict1.
Remember, the safety of everyone on the roads is paramount during this storm. Stay informed, stay safe, and consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
