Wind chills dropping into single digits as snow moves through region

• PHOTOS: Snow coats ground in western Pa.
• PHOTOS: Hour-by-hour look at bitter cold wind chills
• PHOTOS: Hour-by-hour look as snow moves into western Pa.

PITTSBURGH — Officials with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said 35 trucks were out on the roadways overnight in Allegheny County, treating them with a brine solution. Once snow starts to fall, 65 trucks will be out at a time.

The timing of Tuesday’s snowfall was especially concerning to PennDOT drivers, who did what they could in advance of the precipitation.

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"Because of the timing of the storm, it could be a little tricky in the morning, depending on how much snow we get," said Steve Cowan, PennDOT press officer. "Please be patient. Our crews will be out. We will be addressing the roadways. Give yourself a little extra time."

The Pittsburgh Public Works Department sent out 55 trucks overnight to not only treat the roads, but also monitor road conditions as snow began to fall.

Trucks will be equipped with snow plows but, at this time, drivers do not expect to use them, due to the amount of snow Pittsburgh is expecting.

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"Give yourself a little extra time and because it is the first snowfall of the year, just be prepared," Cowan said. "Make sure you have good tires, your car is in good working order and give yourself plenty of stopping space."

Winds will gust to 30-35 mph at times, causing blowing and drifting snow in some areas, which could make even treated roads icy.

PennDOT has new technology, 511 PA, that could help you navigate the winter weather. It gives you the ability to track snow plows, their locations and when they last hit a section of roadway.

Last year, 511 PA was used on select trucks, but this year it's on every single vehicle in the state.

"If it hits during rush hour on the interstates, our trucks will be stuck with any traffic that is out there, so, again, motorists need to give themselves a little extra time and be prepared. If it does hit during rush hour, there could be some issues with congestion," Cowan said.

The city of Pittsburgh has activated its Snow Plow Tracker, and the Public Works Department will be at a Snow Alert Level 1.

Cox Media Group