Western Pennsylvania could get up to 5” of snow between now and mid-day Tuesday, thanks to a winter storm stretching from Arkansas to New York.
Salt trucks in Allegheny County typically deploy when snow starts falling — forecasters say that should be overnight Monday into Tuesday.
Stephen Shanley, director of the county's Department of Public Works, says plow drivers need up to three hours to complete their routes, especially during morning rush hour, before returning to the nearest maintenance garage where they reload with salt and start again.
Shanley says we're well-stocked for the season's first significant snowfall — 9,837 tons of salt and 2,615 gallons of liquid calcium chloride. Trucks will stay on the roads around the clock, he says, until precipitation stops and all county-maintained roads are clear.
Fun fact: many roads aren’t county-owned. The Pittsburgh region includes about 1,200 miles of roadway, and only 357 are serviced by the county. Check this map if you’re wondering who maintains the streets you travel the most.
Pittsburgh-area roads are maintained by municipal, county, and state agencies, but it can be hard to tell who’s in charge. (Allegheny County)
If the city services your area and snowfall gets deep, Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works will prioritize main roads, with smaller service vehicles on secondary routes. You can track Pittsburgh snow plows here.
And be patient! Snow removal takes longer during high traffic hours — and when pavement temperatures are below freezing during a storm, which affects how quickly road salt can work. Officials suggest staying home if you can while the snowfall is heaviest.
Pro-Tips During Pittsburgh Snowfall
- 🚙 Consider getting your car off of main roads or away from alleys before the trucks come through. Pittsburgh issues parking citations when the snow gets deep and cars are in the way of plows. Car owners often aren't warned.
- ❄️ Renters and homeowners should shovel their walkways within 24 hours of a snow or ice event. The city suggests piling it onto your lawn if you have one.
- 😇 If you’re a senior or have a disability, you can register for a snow angel — a volunteer within walking distance who will shovel your sidewalk.
- 🧣 Know a neighbor in need? Find a map of winter warming shelters here.
- ☎️ Call 311 or 412-255-2621 for non-emergency city services. To report a power outage, contact your provider, such as Duquesne Light. For fallen trees, gas leaks, or other life threatening situations, always call 911.
