Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has signed a disaster declaration ahead of the major winter storm that is expected to drop more than a foot of snow across the state Sunday.
The declaration, which was issued for the entire state, will help provide additional resources for storm preparations and response, the governor’s office and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency said in a news release Friday.
“Today, I signed a disaster declaration for the entire Commonwealth to ensure our agencies have all necessary resources ready to go,” Shapiro said in the news release. “Stay off the roads if you can, be safe, and follow instructions from PEMA and your local authorities.”
The declaration will also allow state agencies to more easily provide counties and municipalities with resources to assist with their storm response.
“This declaration gives PEMA the flexibility to pre-position resources, streamline coordination, and respond quickly if conditions deteriorate this weekend,” said PEMA Director Randy Padfield. “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.”
While the disaster declaration does not explicitly prohibit driving during the storm, motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel.
Earlier Friday, state officials held a news conference to discuss their storm preparation efforts. PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission announced restrictions on the state’s interstates and other major highways during the storm, including reduced speed limits and a ban on tractor-trailers and all other commercial vehicles.