Year-end voyage hampered by winter storm

(WHTM) – The year-end travel rush is underway, mixed with some blustery winter weather.

“For us, it’s a weird storm because it’s a storm. There are a few pockets here and there that got a little snow or a little rain, but mostly this will be a clean-up thing for us,” said Fritzi Schreffler, safety spokesperson for PennDOT.

The storm downed several trees, including one on a home in Hummelstown, causing extensive damage.

“I heard a noise and the whole house was shaking, then I heard screams and screams and I went and saw the installation everywhere,” said Emily Cook, who lives in the damaged house.

Jason Roberts works for SERVPRO Cleanup and Restoration. He says it’s important to prepare early and have trees around your property inspected.

“This one uprooted. If you could have ever predicted this would happen, probably not, but dead trees are a big deal,” said Jason Roberts, general manager at SERVPRO in Hershey, East Harrisburg.

Roberts says when a tree snaps, you should always call in professionals.

“Don’t try to do things by yourself, instead make phone calls. Let people know what they’re doing and come out and help at times like this,” Roberts said.

According to PennDOT, crews patrol and look primarily for debris and fallen trees on roads that could pose a hazard to driving.

“Always make sure the gas tank is full and your phones are charged. I would recommend this mainly because we expect possible power outages,” said Schreffler.

PPL said crews have powered more than 20,000 customers since the storm began and expect more outages later in the day.