Motorists traveling on Interstate 81 through Schuylkill County should prepare for travel impacts beginning Sunday afternoon as PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission implement vehicle restrictions ahead of a winter storm expected to bring heavy snowfall across the region.
Beginning at 3:00 PM on Sunday, February 22, Tier 1 vehicle restrictions will take effect on numerous major roadways statewide, including the entire length of Interstate 81, a north-south corridor running directly through Schuylkill County.
Snowfall Rates Could Be Heavy
Snow is expected to move into Pennsylvania Saturday night and continue into Sunday, with potential snowfall rates between ¾ inch to 1½ inches per hour at times. The intensity of the storm could quickly create hazardous driving conditions, particularly along elevated stretches and mountain grades of Interstate 81.
What the Tier 1 Restrictions Mean for I-81
Under Tier 1 restrictions, the following vehicles WILL NOT be permitted to travel on I-81 while the restrictions are in place:
- Tractors without trailers
- Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded enclosed trailers, open trailers, or tank trailers
- Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded tandem trailers
- Unloaded or lightly loaded enclosed cargo delivery trucks/box trucks meeting the definition of a commercial motor vehicle
- Passenger vehicles towing trailers
- Recreational vehicles and motorhomes
- School buses, commercial buses, and motor coaches
- Motorcycles
In addition, speed limits may be reduced to 45 mph for all vehicles on affected highways, including I-81. Commercial vehicles not impacted by the restrictions will be required to remain in the right lane.
PennDOT officials say restrictions may be adjusted depending on road conditions and reports from law enforcement, first responders, and maintenance crews. The restrictions will be lifted as quickly as conditions allow.
Additional Roadways Affected
In addition to I-81, Tier 1 restrictions will also impact portions or the entirety of Interstates 76, 78, 80 (from I-81 to New Jersey), 83, 84, 95, 283, 295, 380, 476, 676, Route 33, U.S. 22 (from I-78 to New Jersey), and several segments of the Pennsylvania Turnpike system.