Storm Problems Persist, Some Services Resume

Pittsburgh Public Works crews continue to work to clear some primary roads and have not issued an estimate as to when secondary streets will be cleared. Downed power lines and tree limbs have delayed plows in some instances. Public Works director Rob Kaczorowski says, "Crews continue to work hard to get our roads as clear as possible for tomorrow's commute. In the meantime, many roads are still really treacherous… we are urging everyone to be patient, use common sense, and wait until we get to your street." Allegheny County Public Works Director Joe Olczak says most county maintained roads are clear. Crews are out now dealing with slick spots and areas where snow has blown back over the road. Olczak says they will also be working to make some routes a bit wider and will be plowing some of the smaller county parks later today. County road crews were sent home around 10:00 last night and returned to work at 4:00 am. Olczak says the workers are rested and the salt stores are holding out well.

The Port Authority of Allegheny County says it is working to restore service on the T but there is no estimate as to when the trains will be up and running. The Mon Incline has resumed service. Nearly 40 bus routes are offering limited service. All of them are staying on primary roads that have been cleared. PAT spokesperson Jim Ritchie urges users to check the Port Authority’s web site or the latest route information.

Nearly 14,000 Allegheny County residents remain without power. The County, City and Red Cross have all opened warming centers. A list of those centers can be found at the Allegheny County Web site, the Pittsburgh web site and the Red Cross web site.

Several organizations and businesses are canceling events and some are not opening their doors at all today. Check with your destination before leaving. Emergency room doctors are reminding homeowners that snow shoveling is a very strenuous activity. The aerobic activity coupled with the cold temperatures can lead to heart attacks and muscle strains. Shovelers are urged to take frequent breaks and to drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids. Public health officials are asking residents to check in on the elderly.