Governor declares state of emergency in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell on Saturday declared a statewide disaster emergency to enable state, county and municipal governments to respond effectively to the snow storm that has hit much of the state.

State of emergency Pennsylvania is an response to snow totals across the state that caused more than 160,000 power outages with the majority located in southwestern Pennsylvania.

"Snowfall totals across Pennsylvania range from about six to as much as 30 inches," said Governor Rendell in a statement posted on the state's website.

"I want to thank all motorists who have stayed off the roads during our ongoing clean-up operations, and urge motorists to use extreme caution and good judgment when driving," he added.

With this proclamation, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, the Pennsylvania National Guard, State Police, and the Public Utility Commission and other authorities may take whatever measures deemed necessary regardless of pertinent laws to restore the situation caused by the severe snow storm.

State residents needing assistance are advised to call their local city or county emergency management office listed in the blue pages section of the phone directories or if it is about an emergency, call 911 immediately.  However, it is advised that 911 calls should never be called to request or report road conditions.

By Jimmy Downs