Winter Weather Warning: Pennsylvania Braces for Holiday Travel Challenges

Pittsburgh May Not See a White Christmas, But Winter Storm Watch Issued

Pennsylvania is preparing for a winter storm that could impact Friday's travel plans. While Pittsburgh might not experience a White Christmas, the National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for the area from Friday morning to Saturday morning. This alert is due to a second storm system, known as a "clipper," expected to bring ice, sleet, and a bit of snow.

Travel Restrictions in Place to Ensure Safety

The weather isn't the only concern for travelers. PennDOT has announced that they will be limiting speed on interstates and restricting certain vehicles from using them. These measures are in place to ensure safety, as even a small amount of ice can be dangerous, especially on one of the busiest travel days of the year.

Timelines and Affected Areas

• 10 a.m. Friday: Restrictions start on all interstates in Western Pennsylvania.
• 2 p.m. Friday: Restrictions also apply to interstates east of I-81 and north of its intersection with I-83 near Harrisburg.
• Speed Limits: Reduced to 45 mph on affected routes.

The Importance of Caution

It's crucial to note that these restrictions are not arbitrary. Last winter, there were over 8,300 crashes on snowy, slushy, or ice-covered roadways in Pennsylvania. These crashes resulted in 29 fatalities and nearly 3,000 injuries. Many of these accidents could have been prevented with more cautious driving.

Travel Advisory

If you're planning to travel this Friday, make sure to check the weather and road conditions before you hit the road. It's always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to winter weather.