Philadelphia Weather Today: Blizzard Warning in Effect as Winter Storm Hernando Hammers the Region
Philadelphia is in the grip of Winter Storm Hernando this Monday, February 23, 2026 — a powerful nor'easter that has rapidly intensified into a bomb cyclone, bringing blizzard conditions, heavy snow, and dangerous travel to the entire Delaware Valley. Mayor Cherelle Parker declared a Snow Emergency, Philadelphia public schools are closed, and residents are urged to stay off roads entirely.
Philadelphia Current Conditions (As of Monday, February 23 ET)
| Detail | Status |
|---|---|
| Current Temp | 32°F |
| Condition | Light rain / rain-snow mix |
| Monday High | 36°F |
| Precipitation Chance | 65% (snow) |
| Alert Level | Blizzard Warning |
| Snow Emergency | Active — vehicles must clear Snow Emergency Routes |
Philadelphia Snow Forecast: How Much Snow Will Fall?
Philadelphia, many Pennsylvania suburbs, along with interior South Jersey and Delaware are expected to receive between 8 and 12 inches of snow. Areas closer to the Jersey Shore and coastal zones are expected to see between 12 and 18 inches, while other parts of the viewing area could see between 4 and 8 inches. Wind gusts along the coast will likely reach 50 mph, and coastal flooding and beach erosion are likely.
The heaviest snow will fall Sunday night into Monday, tapering off west to east by Monday morning as the coastal storm continues to strengthen and move away from the shore. Thundersnow is possible in southeastern New Jersey and southern Delaware due to very strong atmospheric lift.
Philadelphia Storm Timing and Impacts
Mayor Cherelle Parker officially declared a Snow Emergency beginning at 4 p.m. Sunday, February 22. Residents are required to move vehicles off Snow Emergency Routes to avoid towing and allow plows to clear major corridors. The City of Philadelphia has mobilized an extensive snow removal response.
More than 300 flights were canceled for Sunday at Philadelphia International Airport, with at least 500 more canceled for Monday. Passengers should confirm flight status directly with their airline. PATCO is operating on a snow schedule beginning at 4:30 a.m. Monday, with trains running at reduced speeds. SEPTA officials say service will run as long as it is safe to do so.
Trash collection has been suspended Monday and Tuesday, with collection for the remainder of the week pushed back two days. All court cases scheduled for Monday have been rescheduled, with the exception of Orphans' Court, which will proceed virtually.
Philadelphia-Area School Closures and Road Restrictions
The School District of Philadelphia has closed all public schools Monday, February 23, with classes held virtually. All Archdiocesan high schools and parochial elementary schools in the city are also virtual. PennDOT implemented vehicle restrictions on major roadways including I-76, I-78, I-95, I-276/Pennsylvania Turnpike, and U.S. Route 22, with 60,000 tons of salt ready across five counties and approximately 170 trucks deployed.
Philadelphia 5-Day Weather Outlook
| Day | High | Precip Chance | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, Feb. 23 | 36°F | 65% | Snow |
| Tuesday, Feb. 24 | 34°F | 10% | Lingering flurries |
| Wednesday, Feb. 25 | 47°F | 40% | Snow possible |
| Thursday, Feb. 26 | 42°F | 65% | Snow |
Philadelphia Weather Safety Reminders
Stay indoors and off roads through Monday afternoon. If travel is unavoidable, carry an emergency kit with blankets, water, a flashlight, and a phone charger. Check the National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly office and the 511PA app for real-time road conditions. The Code Blue warming center declaration for Philadelphia runs through February 25 — anyone in need of shelter should contact city emergency services.
