PennDOT Expanding Winter Weather Warnings on I-79 and I-90

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is expanding technology designed to warn motorists about dangerous winter driving conditions, building on a pilot program launched last winter along Interstates 79 and 90 in Erie County.

The automated system uses readings from roadside weather stations to detect conditions such as low visibility, heavy snowfall and slippery pavement. When dangerous conditions are detected, electronic message signs approaching the affected area can automatically display warnings advising drivers to reduce their speed.

The expansion is part of Pennsylvania’s preparations for the winter travel season, which also include additional safety alerts, road maintenance operations and public information resources.

State officials outlined the plans during a winter preparedness briefing involving the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.

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Preliminary state data show that Pennsylvania recorded 8,919 crashes on snow-covered, slushy or ice-covered roads last winter. Those crashes resulted in 36 deaths and 3,251 injuries.

Twelve of those killed were not wearing seat belts, while 15 fatalities occurred in crashes in which drivers were traveling too fast for conditions and left their lanes.

PennDOT is also partnering with the navigation service Waze to provide alerts about snowplows and Freeway Service Patrol vehicles. Beginning this winter, those vehicles will appear in Waze’s roadside hazard category, giving motorists additional notice as they approach them.

The department has nearly 4,700 on-the-road workers preparing for winter operations and more than 622,000 tons of salt available statewide. PennDOT has budgeted an estimated $219.5 million for this winter’s statewide operations.

Motorists are encouraged to slow down on snow- and ice-covered roads, increase following distances, avoid distractions and always wear seat belts. Drivers should also give snowplows plenty of room to operate.

PennDOT recommends keeping emergency supplies in vehicles throughout the winter, including food, water, blankets, extra gloves and hats, a phone charger, a windshield scraper and brush, and any necessary medications or supplies for children and pets.

Travelers can check road conditions, traffic delays, weather forecasts, traffic speeds and roadway cameras through 511PA, which also provides information about snowplow locations and when state-maintained roads were last plowed.

The service is available online at 511PA.com, through a free smartphone application or by calling 5-1-1.

PennDOT is also seeking temporary equipment operators to supplement its full-time workforce during the winter season. Information about qualifications and applications is available through the state’s employment website.