Weather Forecasts, Road Conditions, and Weather Radar for I-81

Current & 7-day weather forecast, road conditions, and weather radar for all of US interstate I-81.
All times shown in your local timezone

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Weather Radar for I-81

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Road Trip and Weather Conditions on I-81

Interstate I-81 is a major north-south interstate highway that runs through the eastern United States. It stretches 855 miles from Dandridge, Tennessee, to the Canadian border at the Thousand Islands Bridge.

The road conditions on I-81 vary depending on where you are. Generally, the highway is well maintained and in good condition. The highway boasts a wide, straight road with three lanes in each direction. The speed limit is generally 70 miles per hour, though some states have lower speed limits on certain sections.

In addition to regular maintenance, I-81 is often repaved and resurfaced in order to keep it in good condition. In recent years, I-81 has also seen upgrades in terms of safety features. Rumble strips have been added on the shoulders, along with wide, paved shoulders, and median barriers.

Despite its generally good condition, I-81 is known for its high traffic volume, especially during rush hours. As such, there are often heavy traffic delays, especially in the more congested parts of the interstate. In some places, congestion can also lead to slowdowns due to accidents or road construction.

Overall, I-81 is a safe and well maintained highway. It can be affected by heavy traffic and occasional construction.

Weather on I-81

The weather along I-81 is as varied as the terrain. In the south, temperatures range from mild to hot, while in the north they range from chilly to cold. Snow is common in the winter months, especially in the northern states. The spring brings rain and occasional thunderstorms, while summer is mostly sunny and hot. Fall brings beautiful foliage and cool temperatures. Rain and snow are common throughout the year, so travelers should be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Weather in New York on I-81

New York is home to a variety of climates, and the weather on Interstate I-81 can vary depending on the time of year and the region. In the summer, temperatures can soar into the 90s and higher, with high humidity levels. Heat advisories and thunderstorms can also occur. In the winter, temperatures can dip below freezing, with snow and ice common on the roadways. Windy conditions can also be present, with gusts of up to 40 mph. Spring and fall tend to have milder weather, but rain showers are common. In any season, the weather can change quickly, so it is important to be prepared for any conditions.

Weather in Pennsylvania on I-81

Weather in Pennsylvania on Interstate I-81 is normally quite mild throughout the year. In the summer months, temperatures generally reach the mid-80s. During the winter, temperatures usually stay around the mid-30s. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the peak occurring in late summer and early fall. Snowfall is also common in the winter. The heaviest snowfall usually occurs in the northern and western parts of the state.

The most hazardous weather for traveling on I-81 can be strong winds and fog. High winds can make driving difficult and reduce visibility. It is important to be extra cautious when driving in windy conditions. Fog can also greatly reduce visibility, creating dangerous driving conditions. During periods of fog, it is best to reduce speed, use low-beam headlights, and be aware of other drivers.

Weather in Maryland on I-81

Maryland weather on Interstate I-81 can vary depending on the season and location. In the summer, temperatures are usually warm and humid, with highs in the 80s and 90s. Thunderstorms and heavy rain are common, especially in the afternoon and evening.

In the winter, temperatures can dip into the single digits, with snow and icy conditions possible. Drivers should prepare for icy roads and limited visibility during these months.

Spring and fall are milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s. Rain and thunderstorms are still common during these months.

Weather in Virginia on I-81

Virginia is known for its temperate climate and its diverse weather patterns. Interstate I-81 runs along the western side of the state, and experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year.

In the summer months, temperatures along I-81 can reach up to 90°F with high humidity. Thunderstorms are common in the summer months, bringing heavy rain, hail and strong winds.

In the winter months, temperatures can drop below freezing and snowfall is common. I-81 is well-equipped to handle snow and ice, but drivers must use caution as roads can become icy and dangerous.

Spring and fall are milder. They bring more moderate temperatures, with occasional showers and thunderstorms.

Weather in Tennessee on I-81

Tennessee is known for its hot and humid summers and mild winters. Interstate I-81, which runs through the state, experiences all four seasons. Temperatures range from an average high of 91°F in July to an average low of 27°F in January. The weather along Interstate I-81 in Tennessee can be unpredictable and extreme.

In the summer, the I-81 corridor can experience hot temperatures. Occasional strong thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, lightning, and high winds.

In the fall, temperatures are more mild, but the winds can become gusty, and the area will often experience severe storms with a chance of tornadoes.

In the winter, the I-81 corridor experiences cold temperatures and snowfall, though these can be sporadic. The area often experiences ice storms as well, which can make driving along the interstate dangerous.

In the spring, temperatures warm up. The area experiences its fair share of severe thunderstorms, with a chance of hail, tornadoes, and flooding. This is also when the most severe weather tends to occur, so it is important to be prepared.

Major Junctions of I-81

In New York:

  • I-81 South begins at the Thousand Islands Bridge at the Canada–US border.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-781 in Watertown, New York.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-90 in North Syracuse, New York.
  • I-81 has major junctions at I-481 and I-690 in Syracuse, New York.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-86 and I-88 in Binghamton, New York.

In Pennsylvania:

  • I-81 has a major junction at I-476 in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania.
  • I-81 has major junctions at I-84 and I-380 in Dunmore, Pennsylvania, near Scranton.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-476 in Dupont, Pennsylvania.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-80 near Hazleton, Pennsylvania.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-78 in Jonestown, Pennsylvania.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-83 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

In Maryland:

  • I-81 has a major junction at I-70 in Hagerstown, Maryland.

In Virginia:

  • I-81 has a major junction at I-66 in Hagerstown, Virginia.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-64 in Lexington, Virginia.
  • I-81 has major junctions at I-73 and I-581 in Roanoke, Virginia.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-77 in Wytheville, Virginia.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-381 in Bristol, Virginia.

In Tennessee:

  • I-81 has a major junction at I-26 in Tri-Cities, Tennessee.
  • I-81 has a major junction at I-40 in Dandridge, Tennessee, near Knoxville.

This map shows the current & 7-day weather forecast, road conditions, and weather radar for all of US interstate I-81.