Governor Declares Disaster: National Guard Deployed
Governor Shapiro Signs Proclamation of Disaster Emergency, Mobilizes State Resources to Aid in Lake-Effect Snow Response Efforts in Northwest Pennsylvania
Parts of Erie County already received nearly three feet of snow, with more expected through Monday night. The Governor’s disaster declaration will allow the Commonwealth to quickly draw down funding and provide state agencies with the resources needed to assist counties and municipalities as they continue with ongoing response efforts. Anyone who is able should stay off the roads – and those with travel plans in the region should plan ahead, and follow direction from PEMA, PennDOT, and local authorities.
Erie County Public Safety Urges Residents to Use 911 for Life-Threatening Emergencies Only
Due to the ongoing severe weather and high call volumes, Erie County Public Safety is urging residents to reserve 911 for life-or-death emergencies only. Our emergency responders are experiencing an overwhelming number of calls, and it’s crucial that the system remains available for those in immediate danger.
For all other concerns, residents are encouraged to contact 211, the United Way’s resource hotline. The 211 service can assist with:
- Non-functioning furnaces
- Snow buildup on roofs
- Difficulty accessing appointments or essential services
- Other non-emergency needs
When to call 911:
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency such as a medical crisis, fire, or other critical situations, do not hesitate to call 911.
“We’re receiving a significant number of non-emergency calls on 911 lines, which can delay response to true emergencies,” said County Executive Brenton Davis. “By using 211 for non-life-threatening issues, you’re helping ensure resources are available for those who need them most, Davis added.
Residents are encouraged to share this information to ensure everyone in the community understands how to get the right help during this weather emergency.
Millcreek Township Declares Snow Emergency
Millcreek Township’s Emergency Management Director Shalan Anderson, under the direction of the township Board of Supervisors, declared a snow and ice emergency Saturday.
It provides for a parking prohibition on all designated emergency routes.
The full text of the emergency declaration is here.
AHN Health Pavilion and Festival of Trees cancellations posted
In an abundance of caution during Erie’s official snow emergency, AHN Saint Vincent Hospital has announced that today’s Festival of Trees and the evening event, Festival after Dark, are both canceled today. The food on the menu for tonight’s Festival after Dark will be sent to the hospital for doctors, nurses and staff working during the storm. A decision regarding the Festival of Trees event scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 1, will be made in the morning.
Also, AHN Express Care at the Health + Wellness Pavilion West and the Imaging Center there are now to be closed both today AND TOMORROW. The east pavilion is always closed on the weekends.
Statement from the Diocese of Erie
Due to the Snow Disaster Emergency in Erie County and ongoing severe weather, Bishop Lawrence T. Persico has dispensed the obligation to attend Mass this weekend for impacted areas, urging parishioners to prioritize safety and allowing pastors to cancel services and activities as needed. Please check with your local parish for any updates or cancellations of services and activities this weekend.
