Major Winter Storm Hits Philly, NJ, and DE: What to Expect

As winter settles in, a significant snowstorm is affecting Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware, resulting in school closures, travel advisories, and community preparations. This post consolidates information on the expected snowfall, travel impacts, and safety measures to take during this winter weather event.

Overview of the Winter Storm

The winter storm warnings were issued for various areas, starting early Monday morning. Philadelphia and its surrounding regions are forecasted to see varying snowfall totals:

• Southern Delaware and Cape May County: Up to 12 inches
• Parts of Southern New Jersey: 6-10 inches
• Philadelphia: 2-5 inches
• North Jersey counties: Dusting to 2 inches, with some areas potentially receiving even less.

Timing of the Snowfall
Snow began to blanket the region around 2 a.m. for Delaware, with first flakes reaching Philadelphia shortly after 4 a.m. Heavy snowfall is expected to peak early in the morning, tapering off in the afternoon and evening hours.

Impacts on Schools and Travel

Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency in seven southern New Jersey counties most affected by the storm, which has led to school closures and delayed openings. The Philadelphia School District announced that all schools would be closed, reflecting the severity of the weather conditions. A comprehensive list of all school closures can be found on local news channels.

Travel Advisory

Traveling during this winter storm can be hazardous, with road conditions expected to worsen significantly. Authorities recommend avoiding unnecessary travel. If you must travel, it's crucial to prepare your vehicle with:

• Portable snow shovel
• Snowbrush and ice scraper
• Extra washer fluid and deicer spray
• Rock salt and kitty litter for added traction

PennDOT advises drivers to remain cautious, as roads have been treated but can still be slick. They have crews deployed to salt and treat highways, prioritizing interstates throughout the storm.

Travel Problems

Snowfall could cause major delays at Philadelphia International Airport, where hundreds of flights have already been delayed or canceled. Travelers are urged to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

Frequent Road Concerns

With expected wind gusts up to 35 mph, wind chills will plummet into the single digits. The icy conditions, coupled with drifting snow likely, may create considerable visibility issues, particularly during the overnight hours.

Live Updates

Weather updates will continue as the storm progresses. Communities are encouraged to stay tuned to local news channels for the latest information regarding snowfall totals, road conditions, and safety recommendations. We’ll provide live updates throughout the day, including any necessary changes to public transportation services in light of the storm's severity.

Safety Precautions Going Forward

Residents are advised to prepare for frigid temperatures following the storm, with highs barely making it to the 30s in the following days. Stay indoors if possible, and ensure that you have essentials, such as food, water, and medications, ready for the next few days as the aftermath of the storm unfolds. In case of emergencies, it's wise to keep a flashlight and extra supplies in your car if you must drive.

In conclusion, this winter storm is set to have significant implications for our community. Please stay safe and take all necessary precautions during this wintry weather.

Concluding Note: After the storm, community members are encouraged to share their experiences and any helpful tips on how they dealt with the snowfall. The snow can present not only challenges but also opportunities for winter fun!