PennDOT Warns Drivers Ahead of Winter Storm Across Pennsylvania

QUAKERTOWN, Pa. (AP) — As rain fell across Quakertown Saturday night, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) urged drivers to exercise caution due to potentially slick road conditions. Motorists faced wintry conditions as snow and freezing rain were anticipated to blanket much of the state.

Local residents shared their apprehensions regarding driving in the winter conditions. “I hate driving at all, so it definitely is a bit scary. I don’t like driving in the snow,” said Brynn Morrone, a Garnet Valley resident.

Another driver, Samantha Proffit from East Greenville, reported, “It was bad; it was slick. I was going as slow as I could on the back roads. It’s a little better now because a lot of the rain washed away the snow, but it’s still pretty icy.”

PennDOT crews were actively salting roads earlier in the day as snow began to accumulate in Allentown. District 5 Press Officer Sean Brown stated, “We have freezing rain coming down or maybe sleet, so that can be really slippery out there. Just be cautious if you do have to go out; know the conditions and drive appropriately.”

PennDOT is advising motorists to avoid unnecessary travel as winter weather is expected to worsen. Snow is anticipated to begin in the morning in southwestern Pennsylvania, spreading east and north, followed by freezing rain. To minimize ice formation, crews will pretreat roadways where necessary. However, PennDOT warns that salt may not eliminate all risks, with additional icy patches possible.

Drivers are advised that roads that appear wet may actually be icy. Extra caution is required, especially on bridges and highway ramps where ice can form unexpectedly. According to PennDOT, restrictions on vehicle types and speeds are to be implemented throughout the storm.

Statistics from last winter reveal that aggressive driving behaviors contributed to 151 crashes on snowy, slushy, or icy roadways, resulting in three fatalities and 55 injuries. Following such incidents, PennDOT emphasized the importance of safe driving practices.

According to PennDOT’s guidelines, drivers should slow down gradually, stay in their lane, and increase their following distance. Maintaining alertness and patience is crucial, especially during snow squalls or whiteout conditions. “Do not stop in the flow of traffic since this could lead to a chain-reaction collision,” they cautioned.

Motorists are reminded that failing to remove snow and ice from vehicles can result in fines up to $1,500 if such debris is dislodged and causes injury or damage. In light of the approaching winter weather, residents like Jordan Keho expressed their growing fatigue with persistent snow, saying, “I’m tired of the snow; I’m ready for the spring.”

For those who must travel during the storm, PennDOT recommends preparing an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, blankets, and cell phone chargers. For real-time road conditions, motorists can access resources via the 511PA traveler information system or their smartphone app.