Winter Storm Blankets Philadelphia Region with Heavy Snowfall
South Jersey and Delaware Hit Hardest as Winter Storm Brings Up to Six Inches of Snow
The Philadelphia region is currently experiencing a winter storm that has brought heavy snowfall since Friday morning. With the potential to drop up to six inches of snow, the storm has prompted winter storm warnings and advisories across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. As the snow continues to fall, schools have closed, flights have been delayed or canceled, and residents are preparing for treacherous road conditions.
Snowfall Totals Vary Across the Region
The National Weather Service reports that parts of the Philadelphia area have already received up to 5.1 inches of snow. Philadelphia International Airport has seen 2.9 inches of snowfall, leading to flight delays and cancellations. Snow totals are expected to range from two to six inches across the region, with higher estimates in southern New Jersey and Delaware. Gloucester County, New Jersey, has recorded up to 5.5 inches of snow, while Norristown in Montgomery County has seen up to 5.2 inches.
Impact on Travel and School Closures
The heavy snowfall has had a significant impact on travel in the Philadelphia region. Philadelphia International Airport has experienced numerous flight delays and more than 40 cancellations. As a result of the potential hazards on the roads, schools across the region have closed, ensuring the safety of students and staff during their morning and evening commutes.
Timing and Forecast
The snowfall began in the Poconos early in the morning and is expected to spread across the entire region by 6 a.m. There may be some rain mixed with snow at the Jersey Shore before the coastal low intensifies offshore. The heaviest snowfall is expected to occur in the afternoon, with a band of heavy snow moving north from New Castle County in Delaware to Philadelphia and Delaware County in Pennsylvania.
Snow Emergency in Philadelphia
Philadelphia has declared a snow emergency, which may require residents to move their cars if they are parked on snow emergency routes. The city has provided a snow emergency routes map on its website to assist residents in navigating the situation.
Weekend Outlook
Following the winter storm, cold air will persist throughout the weekend, resulting in frigid temperatures and strong winds. Wind gusts of up to 30 mph are expected, with wind chills remaining in the single digits. Saturday will be particularly cold and windy, with temperatures feeling as low as 2 degrees in Philadelphia and -10 degrees in Mount Pocono.
Conclusion: The winter storm has brought significant snowfall to the Philadelphia region, with South Jersey and Delaware experiencing the heaviest accumulation. As residents navigate treacherous road conditions and flight cancellations, schools have closed to ensure the safety of students and staff. The impact of the storm will continue into the weekend, with bitter cold temperatures and strong winds expected. As the region digs out from the snow, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter weather and the importance of preparedness in the face of such storms.