Philadelphia Snowfall: Latest Forecast and Totals Update
Philadelphia is experiencing significant weather disruptions, prompting school closures and travel challenges. Below is an overview of the latest updates regarding snowfall, school operations, and travel conditions in the region.
School Closures and Virtual Learning
The School District of Philadelphia will be closed on Monday due to snowfall. Students received charged Chromebooks to facilitate virtual learning during this week. Archdiocesan high schools and parochial elementary schools are implementing “Flexible Instruction Days.” Parents and students should check their local school websites for details.
Travel Conditions and Restrictions
Travel in the Philadelphia area has been significantly affected. Here are the latest updates from various transportation authorities:
Pennsylvania
- PennDOT: Speed limit restrictions have been lifted on local interstates. However, U.S. 30 and U.S. 202 in Chester County remain at a reduced speed of 45 mph.
- PA Turnpike: All previous restrictions have been removed.
New Jersey
- Commercial vehicle restrictions have been lifted, but a 35 mph speed limit remains.
Delaware
- Kent and New Castle counties downgraded driving restrictions from level 2 to level 1. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel.
- In Sussex County, the level 1 driving warning has been lifted.
Public Transportation Updates
Many public transportation services are experiencing disruptions:
SEPTA
- Service disruptions are expected to continue. Regional Rail and other services will gradually resume, following a modified schedule.
NJ Transit
- Service will gradually resume starting with light rail lines. Passengers should prepare for delays and possible cancellations.
PATCO
- Trains will operate every 15-20 minutes with adjusted travel times due to weather conditions.
Flight Delays
Flight cancellations and delays are widespread, with over 4,400 changes reported nationally. Passengers at Philadelphia International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and Lehigh Valley International Airport should check with their airlines for updates.
City Services and Operations
Various city services have also been impacted:
- Trash Collection: All trash and recycling pickups are suspended for Monday. Collection will resume a day later for the remainder of the week.
- Court Operations: Scheduled court cases are postponed, except for virtual Orphans’ Court sessions.
- Health Centers: All public health centers are closed, and patients will be contacted to reschedule appointments.
Snow Shoveling Guidelines
Residents, including renters and homeowners, must clear sidewalks of snow and ice within six hours once the snow has stopped. Corner property owners are responsible for sidewalk extensions as well. Snow cannot be dumped into the street; instead, it should be pushed toward your building. Violations may result in fines of $1,000 or more.
For real-time updates on snow removal operations, residents can track the city’s plowing efforts online via PlowPHL.
Stay safe and informed during this winter weather event.
