Philadelphia’s Heaviest Snowstorm in Five Years Brings Lingering Icy Conditions
Philadelphia experienced its heaviest snowfall in five years over the weekend, coupled with icy conditions. The severe winter weather brought a mix of snow and sleet, creating hazardous conditions and disrupting daily life.
Significant Snowfall and Sleet Accumulation
On Sunday, the National Weather Service reported a total of 7.4 inches of snow measured at Philadelphia International Airport by 1 p.m. By the afternoon, many areas recorded between 8 to 10 inches of total accumulation. The considerable snowfall marked the highest measurement since February 2-3, 2021, when 8.1 inches fell.
- Snow Accumulation: 7.4 inches officially measured
- Total Expected Accumulations: 8 to 10 inches in various locations
- Previous Record: 8.1 inches from February 2-3, 2021
Weather Conditions and Forecast
Temperatures remained below freezing throughout Sunday, with highs not exceeding the teens. As the day progressed, additional sleet and possibly freezing rain were predicted to complicate matters further.
A significant amount of sleet, measuring 2.5 inches, contributed to the ice layer, with an estimated weight equivalent to 18 inches of snow. Forecasters warned of challenging conditions, particularly with sleet falling at remarkable rates of 0.5 inches per hour.
Impact on Transportation and Daily Life
The winter storm caused widespread disruptions. Philadelphia International Airport saw 651 of 672 flights canceled on Sunday. SEPTA, the regional public transportation provider, suspended all Regional Rail and bus services at 2 p.m. Many local schools opted for preemptive closures on Monday.
- Flight Cancellations: 651 out of 672 flights
- SEPTA Service Disruption: Regional Rail and bus services suspended
- School Closures: Many schools closed on Monday
Local businesses, including malls, also closed for safety. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker advised residents to stay indoors. Additionally, Blue Mountain ski resort suspended operations due to the extreme winter conditions.
Public Safety Measures
Despite the weather’s harshness, the storm managed to avoid causing severe accidents or power outages. The anticipation around the storm had led to a surge in preparations, with supermarkets and hardware stores witnessing increased activity.
Looking Ahead: Weather Outlook for Philadelphia
As the storm subsides, meteorologists predict continued cold temperatures. Highs will struggle to reach the 20s, with overnight lows dipping into single digits. The icy conditions are expected to linger, making recovery slow.
Looking forward, there is speculation about a potential storm threat late next weekend or early the following week, but for now, residents should prepare for dry, cold days ahead.
