Extended Winter Alert: Snow and Ice Persist for Over a Week
The Philadelphia region is currently under an extended winter alert as snow and ice are anticipated to persist for over a week. Following one of the coldest mornings this season, local meteorologists warn of a significant winter storm impacting the area.
Winter Storm Forecast for Philadelphia
Forecasters predict that several inches of snow will accumulate quickly on Sunday morning. This will be followed by sleet and freezing rain in the afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning, and temperatures are expected to stay below freezing.
- Forecasted snowfall: 8 to 10 inches for the Philadelphia area.
- AccuWeather anticipates 6 to 10 inches of snow.
- Temperature highs this week are likely to remain in the 20s.
Emergency Declarations and Local Impact
In response to the impending storms, officials in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania have declared emergencies. Residents are advised to reconsider any plans in the upcoming days, as conditions may impede travel and outdoor activities. Notably, all Pennsylvania liquor stores will be closed on Sunday.
Historical Context and Comparisons
This storm may evoke memories of past winter events in Philadelphia. Mike Lee, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service, noted that the expected precipitation could match the liquid content seen in historic snowfalls. Some comparisons include:
- January 7-8, 1996: Record snowfall of 30.7 inches.
- January 22-23, 2016: Significant snowfall of 22.4 inches.
- March 1993: Rapid accumulation of a foot of snow followed by sleet.
Conditions Ahead
As the storm progresses, experts expect a challenging combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The mixing of these elements can lead to hazardous conditions:
- Heavy snow may delay the transition to sleet and freezing rain.
- Freezing rain can create dangerous conditions due to added weight on power lines and tree branches.
The temperatures recorded during the weekend underscored the severity of the cold, dropping as low as 11 degrees at Philadelphia International Airport. Consequently, many airlines canceled numerous flights on Sunday, reflecting the storm’s widespread impact.
Future Weather Outlook
The forecast indicates that conditions will remain severe, with daytime highs struggling to reach the low 20s and nightly lows sinking into the single digits. Residents are encouraged to prepare for the snowfall by shoveling often, as the winter season continues to exert its grip on the region.
