Pennsylvania State Police received over 200 calls in 24 hours as heavy lake-effect snow hit the Erie area, according to the Governor’s office.
In response, Governor Josh Shapiro declared a state of emergency and sent more than a dozen Pennsylvania Army National Guard members to the area for assistance. The National Guard is using special vehicles to help drivers who got stuck in the snow.
Governor Shapiro said, Our teams from PEMA, the State Police, and PennDOT have been working overnight to help residents.
At Erie County’s request, I’ve sent in the National Guard to help stranded drivers and ensure emergency responders can reach those in need. We’re also working with local leaders to clear the roads. Please stay off the roads if you can and follow safety instructions from authorities.”
Randy Padfield, Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency PEMA, added, “This storm is affecting areas beyond Pennsylvania, and we’re working with New York to coordinate our response and reopen highways as soon as possible.
We’ve deployed personnel to work with Erie County to assess the situation and address their needs.
Authorities are urging drivers to stay off the roads as more snow is expected from Sunday night into Monday.