Winter Storm Triggers Speed Reductions on Major Northeast PA Interstates

If you’re planning to head out across Northeast Pennsylvania, you need to know that it might be slow going. PennDOT has temporarily reduced speed limits and placed lane restrictions on several major interstates as a powerful winter storm moves through the region.

The goal is simple: keep roads open and drivers safe during some of the storm's toughest conditions.

Speed Limit Dropped to 45 MPH

PennDOT has lowered the speed limit to 45 miles per hour on multiple highways across Northeast PA. When snow and ice pile up quickly, even familiar stretches of road can turn unpredictable.

Reducing speeds gives drivers more reaction time and helps plow crews keep up with conditions. These temporary limits will remain in place until road conditions improve.

Commercial Vehicles Restricted to Right Lane

In addition to the reduced speed limit, commercial vehicles are being restricted to the right lane only on affected interstates. This helps prevent backups and reduces the risk of multi-lane crashes during slippery conditions.

When visibility drops and roads get slick, limiting lane changes for large trucks can make a big difference in keeping traffic moving safely.

Affected Interstates and Counties

The restrictions apply to the following highways:

• Interstate 80 in Luzerne County
• Interstate 81 in Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Susquehanna counties
• Interstate 84 in Lackawanna, Pike, and Wayne counties
• Interstate 380 in Lackawanna and Wayne counties

If you regularly travel through any of these corridors, it’s important to check conditions before heading out.

How to Check Road Conditions Before You Go

PennDOT strongly recommends avoiding travel during winter storms if possible. But if you must drive, you can monitor conditions through 511PA.

You can access 511PA online, through the free smartphone app, by calling 5-1-1, or by signing up for alerts. Variable message boards along highways will also display restriction updates.

Don’t Forget About Snow and Ice Removal Laws

Once the storm passes, there’s another important responsibility for drivers. Pennsylvania law requires you to remove accumulated snow and ice from your vehicle, including the hood, trunk, and roof, within 24 hours after the storm ends. That applies to all vehicles, including commercial trucks.

Failing to clear your vehicle can result in a $50 fine. If snow or ice flies off your vehicle and causes serious injury or death, fines can reach up to $1,500. It only takes a few extra minutes to brush everything off, but it could prevent a dangerous situation for someone driving behind you.

Get our free mobile app

Restrictions Will Lift When Conditions Improve

These measures are temporary and designed to help interstates remain open during the most challenging part of the storm. Once conditions improve, PennDOT will remove the speed reductions and lane restrictions.