A wintry mix of rain, freezing rain and sleet is expected this morning as temperatures hover around the freezing mark, the National Weather Service warns in a special weather statement.

The freezing rain and sleet are expected to diminish by this afternoon, according to the weather service.

"Any untreated surface could be icy, so motorists and pedestrians should take caution while traveling," the statement said.

PennDOT crews across the state have made final checks on their fleet of more than 2,200 trucks in preparation for a mixed bag of winter precipitation, according to a press release from acting PennDOT Secretary Scott Christie.

“Our crews are prepared to tackle whatever winter conditions come our way,” Christie said. “We also urge the public to monitor forecasts, pack a vehicle emergency kit and make smart travel decisions.”

The department also asks motorists to allow plenty of space when driving near plow trucks. So far this winter, 28 PennDOT plow trucks have been struck by motorists, according to PennDOT.

“Plow operators are driving a nearly 60,000-pound vehicle while controlling one, two or sometimes three plows; monitoring salt spreading; keeping an eye out for mailboxes, parked cars and other roadside obstacles and driving in near-zero visibility due to snow spray created by the plow,” Christie said.

“Please slow down, back off and give extra room to snow plow operators – their jobs are challenging enough without having to deal with impatient or unsafe motorists.”

PennDOT also urges motorists not to attempt to pass a truck while it is plowing or spreading treatment materials, according to its press release.