Snow-covered roadways prompted emergency officials to enact speed restrictions on area roadways Wednesday afternoon.
The speed limit was reduced to 45 mph on I-99 and sections of the Pennsylvania Turnpike as heavy snowfall continued across the region, officials said.
"All of Interstate 99 will be reduced to 45 mph beginning at 1 p.m. this afternoon," said Pam Kane, PennDOT District 9 spokeswoman. "It is snowing really hard in some areas. We really would recommend that if you don't have to travel, to please stay home and maybe go another day."
The Pennsylvania Turnpike issued a weather emergency advisory shortly before 12:30 p.m. Wednesday. The speed limit was reduced to 45 mph between the Ohio line and the Morgantown, W.Va., interchange.
The turnpike commission also issued several restrictions on tractor trailers and other towed trailers.
The speed restrictions are a proactive measure to ensure drivers' safety during the storm, Kane said.
Drivers should use caution on area roadways, not tailgate other vehicles and always wear their seat belts, Kane said. Motorists should also watch for plow crews and not attempt to pass plow trucks, she said.
Although PennDOT recommends not traveling during winter storms, motorists can check road conditions on state roads by calling 511 or visiting www.511PA.com.
PennDOT officials are also asking motorists to allow plenty of space when driving near plow trucks and never attempt to pass a truck while it is plowing or spreading winter materials.
