HARRISBURG — Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33), chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, is urging residents to prepare for a major winter storm forecasted to impact Pennsylvania this weekend and stay off the roads so crews can work safely and efficiently.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for much of central Pennsylvania, in effect from Saturday evening through Monday afternoon. Forecasts predict heavy snowfall totaling 10-16 inches, with the heaviest accumulation expected Sunday. Frigid temperatures will follow, with highs near 20°F and lows dipping into the teens.
Mastriano stressed avoiding unnecessary travel is critical for public safety and storm response. “Every vehicle on the road during a storm slows down plowing operations and increases risk,” Mastriano said. “Please stay home unless absolutely necessary — your cooperation helps road crews clear snow faster and keeps everyone safer.”
Remaining off the roads protects drivers from hazardous conditions, allows PennDOT and local crews to clear snow and ice efficiently, and reduces accidents and emergency calls, freeing first responders for critical needs.
Mastriano advised taking the following steps to prepare for the storm:
- Stock up on essential supplies for at least 72 hours: food, water, medications and batteries.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially if using generators.
- Operate generators outdoors only — never indoors.
- Dress in layers and limit time outdoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
- Report outages and downed power lines immediately — do not approach them.
To stay informed, Mastriano recommends monitoring updates from the National Weather Service, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and local emergency management agencies.
“We have a short window to prepare,” Mastriano said. “Please take this storm seriously, stay home and let our crews do their jobs safely and efficiently. Safety is our top priority.”
CONTACT: Don Beishl