READING, Pa. – A snowy morning commute is in the forecast for Tuesday.
“So far, based on what we were told weather wise, it’s going to start around rush hour tomorrow morning, so we’ll have crews out prior to that,” said Rick Stone, county manager at the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
People in Berks County are preparing for the first snowfall of the season.
“Pre-heating cars helps, salting the night before always does the trick — usually anything to make any way of getting to work faster,” said Rocky Ferrandino of Wyomissing.
Maintenance crews were also getting ready.
“We’re going to do some anti-icing ahead of this because we don’t have any material down on roadways, and we’ll be here throughout the event,” Stone said. “Looks like it’s going to be heavier in the morning and lighten up in the afternoon. Maybe change to rain, — that’s what we’re hoping for.”
Even though there are barely a few inches in the forecast, it’s enough for those who enjoy seeing the white flakes.
“I’m excited for it. It’s been a couple years since we had some really good snow. Hopefully it’s not too much, but, I mean, something’s better than nothing,” said Trenton Clifford of Reading.
Authorities said they’re preparing for the worst.
“We’re going to take a little more extra caution, a little more safety because it’s the first one for everybody —motor and public and us,” Stone said.
Drivers have some tips.
“Slow it down, take it easy and be patient,” Stone said.
“Drive diligently. You just make sure you take care of people…There’s no need to drive fast anywhere. Take your time. Shovel them sidewalks and just be safe,” Clifford said.
Cleanup crews have been preparing for weeks ahead of winter storms.
“We spent the last couple of weeks getting our plows and salt spreaders already, still doing little last-minute things — salt bins full or at least almost full. So, we’re getting ready to go,” said Kyle Zeiber, director of Reading Department of Public Works.