Weekend Winter Storm Predicted for Philadelphia
Motorists in Philadelphia's region are being cautioned to brace for a severe snowstorm forecasted for the coming weekend. The advice from local authorities is simple: if you can, stay at home and let the snowplows do their job.
If you absolutely must drive, it's crucial to follow some basic safety procedures. First, make sure to clear your car of all snow and ice before setting off. When driving, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and avoid using cruise control in such slippery conditions.
It's also recommended to fill up your gas tank and put together an emergency kit for your vehicle. Your kit should include a flashlight with batteries, and something to provide traction, like kitty litter or sand, in case you find yourself stuck in the snow.
Don't forget to check your car battery, which many auto supply shops offer as a free service. Lastly, ensure your tires are properly inflated; over-inflated or under-inflated tires can reduce your vehicle's grip on the snow-covered roads.
What to Expect from the Impending Snowstorm
The incoming storm has the potential to dump a significant amount of snow on the Philadelphia region. The impact is expected to peak on Sunday, with the possibility of snow changing into sleet or freezing rain due to a shift in the storm's track.
There's a high chance that we could see at least six inches of snow from this storm, with some areas potentially receiving even more. This would make it the largest snowfall Philadelphia has seen in six years.
Depending on the storm's trajectory, we could see two possible outcomes. If the storm moves farther south, the cold air will remain locked in, causing snowfall from start to finish. If it hugs the coast, warm air may enter the upper atmosphere, which could change snow to sleet or freezing rain after an initial heavy burst of snow.
Regardless of the exact path, it's clear that the region is in for a significant snowfall. Other areas expected to see at least six inches of snow include most of the Delaware Valley, northern Delaware, parts of South Jersey, and areas south of the Lehigh Valley.
Preparation is Key
As the storm draws closer, local officials are encouraging residents to stay off the roads, if possible. The focus is on safety and allowing road crews to effectively manage the expected snowfall.
Public works teams are working tirelessly, still managing the aftermath of last weekend's storm while prepping for the next one. In Camden County, truckloads of salt are being delivered to public works facilities to ensure sufficient coverage for the county's 1,200 lane miles. Up to 2,500 tons of salt could be used, with about 100 trucks being deployed during the storm.
County officials are urging drivers to be cautious and give plow trucks plenty of space, particularly when they encounter convoys. It's all hands on deck, with vacations canceled and various county agencies ready to lend a hand with plowing, treating roads, and shoveling sidewalks.
A Major Storm on the Horizon
The upcoming storm is not an isolated event. Winter storm watches are posted from New Mexico to the East Coast, affecting more than 2,000 miles and over two dozen states. The storm is expected to hit the Philadelphia region overnight Saturday into Sunday, with Sunday likely being the peak of the storm.
While snow totals are still being assessed, there is a 55% chance that this will be a major winter storm, with 6 to 10 inches of snow across the region. There's even a 25% chance that the storm could be a blockbuster, leading to more than ten inches of snow.