Philadelphia is getting slammed by a powerful winter storm that’s bringing a dangerous mix of heavy snow, icy roads, and brutal wind chills. The National Weather Service has put out winter weather advisories across the region, warning that conditions will rapidly deteriorate overnight.
Snow began falling Tuesday afternoon and will continue into early Wednesday, with totals ranging from 3 to 4 inches in the city and up to 8 inches in parts of New Jersey and Delaware. The combination of snow and ice will make travel extremely dangerous, and officials are urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
How Much Snow and Ice Will Philadelphia Get?
Forecasters say that while Philly won’t see the worst of this storm, it’s still going to be a messy and disruptive event.
- Philadelphia will see between 3 to 4 inches of snow, making roads slick and dangerous.
- South Jersey and Delaware could get up to 8 inches, leading to even worse conditions there.
- Icy conditions are expected overnight, which means that even a light snowfall could turn roads into skating rinks.
- Strong winds will make it feel even colder, adding another layer of difficulty for anyone heading outside.
This isn’t a historic blizzard, but the mix of snow, ice, and wind will cause serious problems across the region—especially for those who don’t take it seriously.
Travel Will Be a Nightmare—Avoid the Roads if You Can
Road crews are out in full force, but plows and salt can only do so much when snow is falling steadily and freezing rain is mixing in.
- Highways and local streets are already getting slick, and as temperatures drop, black ice will become a major concern.
- Commuters should expect major delays on Wednesday morning, as roads will likely still be covered in snow and ice.
- Philadelphia International Airport is already experiencing flight delays and cancellations, so travelers should check their flight status before heading out.
If you don’t absolutely have to be on the road, the safest choice is to stay home.
Schools and City Services Already Feeling the Impact
The storm is forcing schools across the region to close or delay openings as officials try to keep students and staff safe.
- Many school districts, including those in Philadelphia and surrounding counties, have announced closures or delays. Parents should check their district’s website or local news for updates.
- SEPTA and other public transportation services may be delayed due to icy conditions, so commuters should plan for extra travel time.
Another concern? Power outages. If the ice gets heavy enough, tree branches and power lines could snap, leaving thousands without electricity in freezing temperatures. Residents are being advised to charge their phones, stock up on supplies, and be ready for possible blackouts.
How to Stay Safe in This Winter Storm
With conditions expected to get worse before they get better, here’s how you can stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks:
- Stay off the roads if you can. If you must drive, go slowly, leave extra space between cars, and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.
- Stock up on essentials. Make sure you have enough food, water, and medicine in case travel becomes impossible.
- Prepare for power outages. Charge your devices, have flashlights and extra batteries ready, and keep blankets nearby.
- Check on elderly neighbors and loved ones. Those without proper heating may need extra help during the storm.
- Keep pets indoors. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
Final Warning: The Worst Is Yet to Come
Philadelphia is in for a rough 24 hours, and while this storm won’t be the worst in history, it will be disruptive and potentially dangerous if people don’t take it seriously.
City officials are urging residents to prepare for hazardous roads, possible power outages, and freezing temperatures. If you live in an affected area, stay home if you can, check for weather updates, and make sure you’re ready for whatever this storm brings.
