Pennsylvania Reduces Speed Limits Due to Severity of Winter Storm

If you need to travel to or from Pennsylvania today, you'll want to note that PennDOT has temporarily reduced speed limits across several major roadways because of how severe the winter storm has become. The hope is to keep roads open and prevent dangerous situations as conditions continue to shift.

PennDOT Expands 45 MPH Limits on Key Highways

Drivers will now see a temporary speed limit of 45 miles per hour on key interstates. This includes Interstate 81 from Schuylkill County all the way up to the Pennsylvania/New York border. The same reduction applies to Interstate 84 through Lackawanna, Pike, and Wayne counties and on Interstate 380 through Lackawanna and Wayne counties.

PennDOT also issued an additional advisory noting that Interstate 81 is restricted from the I-80 and I-81 interchange in Luzerne County up to the state line. The goal is simple. Slower speeds keep these major highways open and give crews the space they need to work safely.

READ MORE: Only in Upstate New York: Burglar Loses Battle to a Snow Shovel

How Long Will the Restrictions Last?

These reduced speeds will stay in place as long as conditions remain hazardous. Once the storm eases up and the roads improve, PennDOT will lift the restrictions. So if you absolutely must travel, plan for a slower trip.

A Reminder About Clearing Snow and Ice

PennDOT is also reminding drivers about Pennsylvania’s snow and ice removal law. You have twenty-four hours after a storm ends to clear your vehicle completely. That means the roof, hood, and trunk. If you skip it, you could face a fifty-dollar fine. If snow or ice flies off your car and injures someone or damages another vehicle, that fine can jump to fifteen hundred dollars.

What Commercial Drivers Should Know

On roads where speed restrictions are active, commercial vehicles that are not otherwise limited need to move into the right lane. This helps keep traffic orderly and gives plow crews the room they need to operate.

Crews Are Working, But Roads Won't Be Perfect

PennDOT crews have been out treating the roads, but during an active storm, the goal is to keep highways passable, not perfect. Ice and snow will still be present. Crews will continue working until the storm stops and the roads can be fully cleared.

Give Plow Trucks Room to Do Their Job

If you’re sharing the road with plow trucks, give them space. Never try to pass a plow while it’s actively clearing or spreading materials. These trucks are large, visibility can be limited, and passing puts both you and the operator at risk.

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Pack an Emergency Kit Before You Go

If you must travel, make sure you’re prepared. A basic emergency kit should include water, non-perishable snacks, warm clothing, a blanket, a small shovel, and anything specific your family might need. That could mean baby food, medications, or even pet supplies.