Snow Squalls Could Impact Wednesday Travel, PA Officials Warn

Travelers hitting the roads in Pennsylvania on Wednesday ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday should be aware that snow squalls are possible throughout the afternoon and evening. The squalls could impact travel conditions, authorities warn.

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, in a Wednesday morning statement, said he advises travelers to check the forecast and avoid driving when the squalls occur.

The National Weather Service is predicting isolated snow showers in the Philadelphia region before 8 pm. Overnight lows will be very chilly — around 19.

Wolf said PennDOT is prepared. Salt, anti-skid and other materials are in good supply and the plow trucks are ready to go, the statement said. "Crews will be working around the clock if necessary to keep roads safe and passable. But remember that squalls happen suddenly and can severely limit visibility."

Remember, roadways will not be free of snow while precipitation is falling. "With freezing temperatures, roads that look wet may be icy, and extra caution is needed when approaching bridges and highway ramps where ice can form without warning. Motorists should leave plenty of space – six car lengths – when following a truck that is plowing or spreading winter materials," the governor's warning said.

RELATED: 10 Thanksgiving Travel Traffic Hotspots Around Philly Region

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, PennDOT, and the Pennsylvania State Police offer these winter weather driving tips:

• Monitor weather forecasts and www.511PA.com, PennDOT’s 24-hour, seven days-a-week travel information center.
• Slow down while driving when snow is falling and always wear a seat belt. Leave plenty of distance between you and the vehicles you are following.
• During squalls or whiteouts, do not stop on the roadway. Come to a complete stop only when you can safely get as far off the road as possible or when there is a safe area to do so.
• After you are stopped safely off of the roadway, turn on your four-way flashers and stay with your vehicle.

PennDOT also recommends packing an emergency kit for your car. A basic kit should include non-perishable food, water, blanket, small shovel and warm clothes. When preparing an emergency kit, motorists should consider special needs of passengers such as baby food, pet supplies or medications and pack accordingly.

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