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Dwindling Salt Supplies Prompt Emergency Declarations In 2 Communities

HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP (KDKA) -- Two communities in Westmoreland County have imposed declarations of emergency, restricting travel on local roads and reducing posted speed limits.

Hempfield Township, which maintains about 300 miles of roadways, was first to declare an emergency Friday night, and then South Greensburg declared one.

"It's terrible, it's treacherous," said one driver.

Officials say the lack of salt has left them unprepared for the most recent round of winter weather.

People can still drive to and from work and school. Commercial drivers, and of course, first responders will also have access to all roads.

"Every storm that we get ... the roads are horrible," one Westmoreland County resident said.

"The roads were a little chaotic," added another driver.

Watch Heather Abraham's report:

Late Friday, officials with Hempfield Township said the state had approved an emergency salt shipment of 100 tons, but the township had requested 500 tons.

Both declarations are supposed to remain in effect until Saturday morning, but that could change.

RELATED LINKS:
Latest Winter Storm Catches Road Crews, Residents Off Guard (2/13/14)
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