HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency is urging residents in northwest Pennsylvania to prepare for the possibility of heavy snowfall from a large storm system that has been predicted for this weekend. Residents in southeast Pennsylvania should prepare for heavy rain and potential flooding.
According to the National Weather Service, forecast models are indicating the potential for more than a foot of heavy snow and high winds in the northwest area of the state. Gusting winds and heavy snow could topple trees and produce scattered power outages from downed power lines.
Due to the potential for blizzard-like conditions, it’s important that the public be prepared. Listen to local forecasts and pay attention to road conditions. Travel conditions on Saturday through Sunday night could be hazardous.
“Along with potential, significant snowfall amounts in some areas, this storm has the potential to trigger small stream flooding in the other parts of the commonwealth since the ground is still saturated,” said PEMA Director Robert P. French.
If waterways rise, people who live near those bodies of water should contact local emergency management officials and move to higher ground, if necessary.
“It is very important that people listen carefully to all severe weather warnings and act immediately if protective measures are advised,” French said.
Motorists are advised to take the following steps to remain safe while traveling:
• Avoid driving during a winter storm or blizzard warning. If travel is necessary, do it in daylight and do not travel alone.
• Keep cars and other vehicles fueled and in good repair.
• Make sure your vehicle’s battery, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashers, exhaust, heater, brakes, defroster and tires are working. Check antifreeze, windshield washer fluid and oil levels.
• Pack a shovel, ice scraper, flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, water, snacks, hats and mittens, blankets, tow chains or ropes, road salt and sand, booster cables, emergency flares and a fluorescent distress flag in vehicles.
• Drive only at speeds dictated by conditions and increase distances between vehicles.
• Share travel schedules and routes and stay on main roads. Carry a cell phone.
French urged drivers not to drive into low-lying areas or over roads and bridges that are already under water, since the average automobile can be swept off the road in only 12 inches of moving water. Roads covered by water are also prone to collapse. He advised those that encounter a flooded street to notify your local police and take an alternate route.
Following are additional flood preparedness tips:
• Learn flood-warning signs and your community alert signals. Request information on preparing for flooding or flash flood conditions and have check valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up in sewer drains;
• Plan and practice an evacuation route. Contact the local emergency management office for a copy of the community flood evacuation plan;
• Make sure all family members know how to respond after a flood or flash flood, and
teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water; and
• Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, the police, the fire department, and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.
If snowfall or flooding does hit your area, it is important to have disaster supplies on hand, including:
• Flashlights and extra batteries;
• A portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries;
• First aid kit and manual;
• Emergency food and water;
• Non-electric can opener;
• Essential medicines/pre scri ptions;
• Cash, credit cards and important legal documents; and
• Sturdy shoes.
Motorists within Pennsylvania may call PennDOT’s 24-hour, toll-free road condition hotline at 1-888-783-6783 for interstate conditions. Out-of-state motorists can call 717-783-5186. For assistance in the event of an emergency, call 911.
For additional emergency preparedness and winter safety information as well as current weather advisories, visit here.