A significant winter storm has prompted state officials to implement major travel restrictions as the region prepares for heavy snowfall and hazardous conditions. According to the Stormtracker 16 forecast, a potent Nor'easter is intensifying and bringing a high-impact weather alert to the area. While snow moved in overnight and remained scattered during the morning hours, the storm is expected to organize and strengthen after sunset, leading to much heavier snow bands through tonight and into tomorrow. For those in the Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and Hazleton valley cities, residents should expect roughly 2 to 5 inches of accumulation. However, the higher elevations of the Poconos and the Northern Tier, including Susquehanna and Wayne Counties, are bracing for significantly higher totals between 5 and 10 inches, with some areas in the Poconos potentially exceeding a foot.
In light of these deteriorating conditions, PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission have announced Tier 1 vehicle restrictions starting Sunday at 3:00 p.m. to ensure public safety on the interstates. These restrictions affect several critical corridors in our region, including the entire lengths of I-81, I-84, I-380, and I-476, as well as I-80 from the I-81 interchange eastward to the New Jersey border. Under these Tier 1 rules, motorcycles, RVs, school buses, commercial buses, and passenger vehicles towing trailers are strictly prohibited from these roadways. Additionally, tractors without trailers or those hauling unloaded or lightly loaded trailers are barred from travel until conditions improve and the restrictions are lifted.
Beyond the falling snow, dangerous winds remain a primary concern for the duration of the event. Forecasters are warning of gusts reaching up to 45 miles per hour, which will likely cause blowing and drifting snow, significantly reducing visibility. Even as the snow begins to taper off tomorrow morning, these high winds will continue to make travel treacherous throughout Monday. Looking ahead, the region will see a high of 33 degrees tomorrow before a much colder but calmer Tuesday arrives with partly sunny skies and a high of only 24 degrees. PennDOT is urging all residents in the affected counties to avoid unnecessary travel and to monitor 511PA for the most current updates on road closures and speed limit reductions, which may be lowered to 45 miles per hour on restricted highways.