Travel restrictions implemented for Pittsburgh area amid major winter storm

PennDOT temporarily reduced the speed limit on major roads in western Pennsylvania as a major winter storm slammed the area on Sunday.

In a news release early Sunday morning, PennDOT urged drivers to avoid unnecessary travel, but said a 45 mph speed limit has been placed on the following highways:

• Interstates 79, 279, 376 and 579 in Allegheny County
• Routes 28 and 65 in Allegheny County
• Interstate 376 and Route 65 in Beaver County
• Interstates 79 and 376 in Lawrence County

"Motorists should always allow plenty of space when driving near plow trucks," PennDOT's release said. "Also, for their own safety and the safety of plow operators, motorists should never attempt to pass a truck while it is plowing or spreading winter materials."

Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a disaster emergency proclamation on Friday ahead of the storm, which could drop 10 to 16 inches of snow on the Pittsburgh area. The disaster proclamation makes it easier to get funding and provides state agencies with the resources needed to help counties and municipalities. 

Lori Musto, PennDOT's assistant district executive of maintenance, said a full complement of crews is on the roads Sunday.