Due to the winter storm, PennDOT temporarily reduced the speed limit on several more highways in the region, although restrictions on I-70 and I-79 were lifted around 7 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
PennDOT urged motorists to avoid unnecessary travel but those who do head out will see speeds reduced to 45 mph on these highways:
Allegheny County: Interstates 79, 376 (Parkways East and West), 279 (Parkway North), and 579; and Route 28
Beaver County: I-376 (Beaver Valley Expressway)
Lawrence County: I-376.
As of 8 a.m., restrictions appeared to still be in place along I-376, which was the site of several minor crashes overnight as drivers navigated the snowy weather, according to PennDOT’s 511PA feed on X.com.
On roadways with speed restrictions, commercial vehicles not affected by restrictions on these or other roadways must move to the right lane.
Although PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, and they will not completely free of ice and snow.
PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear.
Motorists should always allow plenty of space when driving near plow trucks. Also, for their own safety and the safety of plow operators, motorists should never attempt to pass a truck while it is plowing or spreading winter materials.
PennDOT reminds motorists to pack an emergency kit for their vehicles. A basic kit should include non-perishable food, water, blanket, small shovel and warm clothes. When preparing an emergency kit, motorists should account for special needs of passengers such as baby food, pet supplies or medications and pack accordingly.
Copyright ©2026— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)