PennDOT Vehicle Restrictions Issued as Winter Storm Triggers Travel Limits Across Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Monday, February 23, 2026 (ET) — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has implemented widespread PennDOT vehicle restrictions as a powerful winter storm moves across the Commonwealth, bringing heavy snow, ice, and high winds that are making travel hazardous.
Officials say the restrictions are designed to reduce accidents, prevent jackknifed tractor-trailers, and allow plow crews to operate safely during peak snowfall hours.
Where PennDOT Vehicle Restrictions Are in Effect
PennDOT vehicle restrictions currently impact major interstates and high-volume corridors, including portions of:
-
I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike)
-
I-81
-
I-80
-
I-78
-
I-83
-
I-99
Restrictions vary by region depending on snowfall intensity and wind gusts.
What the PennDOT Vehicle Restrictions Mean
Under Tier 1 and Tier 2 restrictions, the following vehicles are typically prohibited from traveling:
-
Empty or lightly loaded tractor-trailers
-
Tandem trailers
-
Double and triple trailers
-
Recreational vehicles (RVs)
-
Motorcycles
-
Buses (under certain conditions)
Commercial vehicles not affected by restrictions must still operate with chains or approved traction devices if required.
PennDOT warns that violators may face fines and could be held responsible for recovery costs if their vehicle blocks a roadway.
Why Restrictions Are Being Enforced
Forecasters are calling for:
-
6 to 12 inches of snow in central Pennsylvania
-
Up to 15 inches in higher elevations
-
Wind gusts exceeding 45 mph
Blowing and drifting snow increases the risk of whiteout conditions, particularly on elevated highways and rural stretches.
PennDOT officials stress that heavy trucks are more likely to lose traction on icy grades, creating major traffic backups when crashes occur.
Statewide Impact and Travel Advisories
In addition to PennDOT vehicle restrictions:
-
Speed limits may be temporarily reduced on major highways.
-
Some entrance ramps may close if conditions deteriorate.
-
Travel advisories urge residents to avoid unnecessary trips.
Officials recommend checking real-time roadway conditions before departing and allowing extra travel time if driving is unavoidable.
How Long Will PennDOT Vehicle Restrictions Last?
PennDOT vehicle restrictions typically remain in place until:
-
Snowfall rates decrease.
-
Road surfaces are fully treated.
-
Visibility improves.
-
Wind speeds drop below critical thresholds.
Restrictions may be lifted gradually by region as plow crews make progress.
What Drivers Should Do Now
PennDOT urges motorists to:
-
Avoid non-essential travel.
-
Keep emergency kits in vehicles.
-
Reduce speed and increase following distance.
-
Never attempt to pass plow trucks.
Drivers can monitor updated restrictions and road closures through official state travel information systems.
Safety First as Storm Continues
With snow continuing into the evening hours (ET), PennDOT emphasizes that vehicle restrictions are preventive measures meant to keep roadways open for emergency responders and essential travel.
As conditions evolve, additional restrictions could be added — or expanded to new corridors — depending on snowfall totals and wind conditions.
Travelers across Pennsylvania are advised to stay alert and prioritize safety until the winter storm fully exits the region.
