Hawley, PA – Pike County Emergency Management today updated the multi-agency response to the strong winter storm that impacted our area in the midst of winter storm Quinn.

Currently, primary roads are open and remain in good condition. Some secondary roads remain closed due to downed trees and powerlines. Response crews are awaiting the removal of downed powerlines by power companies before trees and additional snow can be removed from the roadways. All attempts are being made to clear the roadways of obstacles to allow for PennDOT to be able to plow with the new snowfall, in which they have brought in additional resources to stay in front of demand. Under the direction of Governor Tom Wolf, and the declaration of a state of emergency for Pike County, the PA National Guard is being utilized as a necessary resource to assist in many functional and support areas.

As reported in the previous news release, shelters remain open at the Dingmans Volunteer Fire Department and Bushkill Volunteer Fire Company and will remain open through the duration of the next anticipated storm. In addition, a new shelter will be open at the Matamoras Fire Department for any additional residents in need. It is encouraged that anyone without power, or other difficulties, to be prepared for an additional period of time without power. If shelter can be taken at a friend or relatives with power, it is recommended to do so, or to take advantage of the previously mentioned emergency shelters.

The Pike County EOC will remain in operation throughout the storm in order to coordinate a speedy response and recovery between all state and local organizations.  911 service has been restored in all areas of Pike County.

We ask that the public to be vigilant with regards to the welfare of neighbors as there are still numerous outages, especially in areas without power for those people with medical conditions, the elderly, and families with young children. If you have portable oxygen generators and without power, we recommend going to a shelter where there is power and assistance.

If you decide to travel during the next snow storm, prepare by having a full tank of fuel in your vehicle, pack water and snacks, have a fully charged cell phone, pack blankets and extra warm clothing, and allow extra time for travel. Travelers often experience delays on interstate highways caused by accidents, and other traffic related incidents, that slow or stop traffic for extended periods of time in some cases.