Ahead of anticipated winter weather across Pennsylvania starting early Friday, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission are advising motorists to watch forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel and to exercise caution when driving.

PennDOT and the turnpike may implement speed and vehicle restrictions throughout the storm.

“With Friday being a heavy holiday travel day, it’s important that folks keep an eye on the weather when making travel plans, and be prepared to make adjustments, if necessary,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Our 511PA.com website and mobile apps are a great way to get up-to-the-minute information on travel conditions across the state.”

Snow is expected in the north central, northeast and eastern regions of the state, with periods of ice in the northwest and central regions. Additionally, there is potential for prolonged periods of freezing rain, possibly starting as snow, through a large portion of the state.

“We really urge all drivers to exercise caution and avoid travel if the conditions warrant it,” said turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “If that is not possible, please slow down, practice safe driving habits, and call *11 for any type of support while on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.”

The turnpike is projecting more than 7.4 million vehicles on the road this holiday period, with about 550,000 vehicles on the road Friday.

PennDOT offers this advice if motorists must travel and encounter snow squalls or blowing or drifting snow:

• Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits conditions.

• Turn on your headlights. If caught in a snow squall, turn on your hazard lights.

• Stay in your lane and increase your following distance.

• Stay alert, keep looking as far ahead as possible and be patient.

• Don’t drive distracted; your full attention is required.

• Use your defroster and wipers.

• Keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.

• During whiteouts, come to a complete stop only when you can safely pull off the roadway.

• Don’t stop in the flow of traffic since that could cause a chain-reaction crash.

• Don’t pass a vehicle moving slowly or speed up to get away from a vehicle that is following too closely.

• Always buckle up and never drive impaired.

• Have an emergency kit handy.

For more information on safe winter travel, an emergency kit checklist and information on PennDOT’s winter operations including a video, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/winter.

Additional winter driving and other highway safety information is available at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.