Lehigh Valley Faces Winter Storm Alert: PennDOT Implements Travel Restrictions

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The National Weather Service has elevated Northampton and Lehigh counties to a winter storm warning, replacing the winter storm watch in effect from 7 a.m. Sunday until 1 a.m. Monday.

Significant snowfall is anticipated, with overall snow totals ranging from 4 to 7 inches, causing roads, particularly bridges and overpasses, to likely become slick and perilous.

“Forecasts indicate temperatures will drop into the teens Sunday evening, remaining below freezing for several days. Consequently, icy and slippery conditions may persist even after the precipitation concludes,” the weather service stated.

Travel could prove to be quite challenging, and drivers are encouraged to refrain from using the roads; if travel is unavoidable, ensure preparedness with an additional flashlight, food, and water in case of an emergency.

Regarding timing, the weather service expects precipitation to enter the area from southwest to northeast by mid-to-late morning Sunday, with the most intense snow occurring during the afternoon into early evening.

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The state Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) agree, urging motorists to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary during the storm, and to proceed with caution while driving.

PennDOT and the PA Turnpike will impose various speed and vehicle restrictions throughout the duration of the storm.

“At various times during the storm, snowfall rates may reach between three-quarters of an inch to one inch per hour. Although PennDOT and PA Turnpike crews will strive to keep the roads as clear as feasible, they will not be entirely free from ice and snow while it continues to snow,” they communicated in an email on Saturday afternoon.

They recommend reducing speeds and exercising caution for those who must venture out during the storm. Temperatures are predicted to drop quickly Sunday evening, leading to a rapid freeze risk, and “hazardously cold temperatures are expected for a substantial portion of the Commonwealth following the storm.”

The following travel restrictions are now in effect, but see more details here:

Beginning at 6 a.m. Sunday, certain travel restrictions will be enforced for the PA Turnpike I-476 Northeast Extension from Mid-County (Exit 20) to Lehigh Valley (Exit 56).

Starting 9 a.m. Sunday, travel restrictions will also be imposed on the following:

• I-78, entire length
• I-81 from I-78 to PA Turnpike 476.
• I-80 from I-180 to the New Jersey border.
• I-84, entire length.
• I-380, entire length.
• PA Turnpike I-476 Northeast Extension from Lehigh Valley (Exit 56) to Clarks Summit (Exit 131)
• U.S. 22 from I-78 to the New Jersey border. Route 33, entire length.

For more information and the latest travel updates, visit 511PA.com or use the 511PA mobile application for the most current information on weather effects and vehicle restrictions.