HARRISBURG - Gov. Ed Rendell has declared a statewide disaster emergency because of this week's snowstorm.

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"Weather conditions statewide continue to be hazardous, and PennDOT, the National Guard, State Police and PEMA (Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency) are still working to remove heavy snow and ice that have blocked roadways," the governor said in a statement issued this afternoon. "They are also continuing to help motorists who have become stuck during the storm.

Mr. Rendell said drivers should avoid Interstate 78 near Interstate 81 in Berks County, and he ordered all available equipment and manpower to help in the area.

The disaster proclamation authorizes state agencies to use all available resources and personnel as is deemed necessary to cope with the magnitude and severity of this situation. The bidding and contract procedures that are normally required by law are waived for the duration of the proclamation.

"Road conditions across Pennsylvania range from wet to snow covered," Mr. Rendell said. "Many difficult snow removal efforts have been successful, but there is still much work to be done and there still are people who are stuck in their cars, so I urge motorist to avoid these dangerous areas during our ongoing clean-up operations."

Mr. Rendell has also directed an enhanced staffing of the state emergency operations center.

Individuals who need help should call their local city or county emergency management office.

Interstate road conditions are updated on PennDOT's 24-hour road hotline at 1-888-783-6783 and the Turnpike Commission at 1-800-331-3414.