PennDOT announces highway vehicle restrictions ahead of tonight’s storm

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January 5th, 2025 | By Ryan Genova

PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission announced an update regarding the start times of planned vehicle restrictions on several interstates based on tonight’s weather forecast.

The following vehicle restrictions are planned to go into effect at 8:00pm on Sunday, January 5:

  • Interstate 79 from the West Virginia border to Exit 77 (PA Turnpike).
  • I-70 from the West Virginia border to PA Turnpike Exit 57 (New Stanton).
  • I-279, entire length.
  • I-376 from Brighton (Exit 36) to PA Turnpike (Exit 85).
  • I-579, entire length.
  • PA Turnpike (I-70/I-76) from Exit 28 (Cranberry) to Exit 161 (Breezewood).
  • PA Turnpike 576 (entire length).
  • PA Turnpike 43 (entire length).
  • PA Turnpike 66 (entire length).

The following vehicle restrictions are planned to go into effect at 12:01am on Monday, January 6:

  • I-81 from the Maryland border to I-78 (Exit 89).
  • I-83, entire length.
  • PA Turnpike (I-76) from Breezewood (Exit 161) to Harrisburg East (Exit 247).

Under Tier 2 restrictions, the following vehicles are not permitted on affected roadways:

  • Tractors without trailers.
  • Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded enclosed trailers, open trailers or tank trailers.
  • Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded tandem trailers.
  • Tractors towing loaded tandem trailers without chains or Alternate Traction Devices (ATDs).
  • Enclosed unloaded or lightly loaded cargo delivery trucks/box trucks that meet the definition of a CMV.
  • Passenger vehicles (cars, SUV’s, pickup trucks, etc.) towing trailers.
  • Recreational vehicles/motorhomes.
  • School buses, commercial buses and motor coaches, regardless of the availability of trains or ATDs.
  • Motorcycles.

“Tire chains or ATDs do not need to be installed under Tier 2 restrictions but need to be readily available for use should the vehicle become stuck and not be able to move because of poor traction,” PennDOT said. “On roadways where vehicles are not restricted, commercial vehicle drivers in particular are encouraged to exercise caution in high winds. Drivers should ensure their loads are secure, reduce speeds, increase following distance, and use flashers if necessary.”

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