PA Disaster Declaration Issued Ahead Of Weekend Snowstorm

PENNSYLVANIA — On the eve of what likely will be one of the most significant snowstorms to hit the state in years, Gov. Josh Shapiro on Friday signed a disaster declaration that will make it easier for Pennsylvania to respond and recover from the weather event.

The governor’s disaster declaration enables the state to more rapidly provide funding to state agencies, giving them the ability to quickly assist counties and municipalities with their responses to the winter storm.

"Our teams at the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation have been working to prepare to support Pennsylvanians as this winter storm impacts our Commonwealth," Shapiro said in a statement. "Today, I signed a disaster declaration for the entire Commonwealth to ensure our agencies have all the necessary resources to go."

If forecasts prove correct, those resources will be be necessary as one of the most significant weather events in recent Pennsylvania history appears likely to occur. It appears no part of the state will be spared from the storm's wrath, with double-digit inch accumulations likely in Pennsylvania's most populated areas.

See the Eastern Pennsylvania outlook here.

See the Western Pennsylvania outlook here.

The disaster declaration "gives PEMA the flexibility to pre-position resources, streamline coordination, and respond quickly if conditions deteriorate this weekend,” PEMA Director Randy Padfield said. “At the same time, we urge Pennsylvanians to do their part by preparing ahead of the storm, staying informed, and making decisions that protect themselves and others.”

Motorists are advised not to travel during the storm. While the disaster declaration does not explicitly prohibit travel, motorists should be aware that local road restrictions that may be in place.

Earlier on Friday, the state announced vehicle restrictions would be in place for all Pennsylvania interstates and the turnpike beginning at midnight Saturday and lasting for the duration of the storm.