The Philadelphia region is bracing for another winter storm that will likely have an impact on the Tuesday morning commute for a large part of the area. Winter weather warnings and advisories are in effect as a system approaches overnight Monday. Initially, rain will fall, but a blast of cold air will cause a changeover to snow.
The heaviest wet snow is expected to occur between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., with rates up to 1 inch per hour. The accumulation will stick due to the cold ground, resulting in slushy and slick driving conditions, particularly along I-95 and areas northwest. The snow is predicted to taper off around midday, and there may even be some periods of sunshine during the mid to late afternoon on Tuesday. With temperatures in the 40s, roads should quickly improve in the afternoon, leading to mainly wet roads for the evening rush.
PennDOT District 5 spokesperson Ron Young acknowledged the lack of snow in the Lehigh Valley in recent years, saying, We’ve been a little spoiled lately. Despite this, road crews are prepared to tackle whatever this storm brings. Young explained that since this storm is expected to start as rain, the roads weren’t pre-treated as it would have been washed away. However, PennDOT will have 275 trucks on standby ready to respond as soon as the rain switches to snow.
Local businesses are also gearing up for the storm. Ken Ringer, owner of Albright Hardware in Allentown, noted that last winter’s lack of snow significantly impacted his business. He said, It must be a third of the business, referencing the decline in sales. Ringer’s store has been selling salt, shovels, and even snow blowers in anticipation of the storm.
Residents of the region are making their own preparations as well. Kiersten Cash, who resides in the area, emphasized the importance of stocking up on ice melt ahead of the winter storm, stating, I’m not waiting till the last minute. I’m hoping we don’t get a storm at all. Peggy Meikrantz of Allentown mentioned that while she doesn’t have a snowblower, she has her shovels and a Subaru to navigate the city quickly.
In anticipation of the storm, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has imposed a commercial vehicle travel restriction on several Interstate highways in New Jersey as of 12 a.m. Tuesday. However, this restriction does not apply to the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, or Atlantic City Expressway.
As the storm approaches, many schools in the region have announced closures or delays. The School District of Philadelphia will operate on a two-hour delay, but all athletic events and after school activities will proceed as scheduled. Archdiocesan high schools and parochial elementary school buildings in the city will be closed, with schools utilizing a Flexible Instruction Day.
AAA is reminding drivers to be cautious of potholes. Heavy rain and other forms of precipitation can conceal these road hazards, posing risks to motorists.
Stay tuned for real-time updates on traffic and the AccuWeather forecast by keeping the 6abc mobile app handy.
In conclusion, the Philadelphia region is preparing for another winter storm that will result in a changeover from rain to snow. With wet snow falling during the morning hours, residents are urged to exercise caution on the roads. Local businesses are making necessary preparations, and residents are stocking up on supplies. Schools have announced closures or delays, and drivers are reminded to be aware of potholes. Stay informed with real-time updates and exercise caution during this winter storm.
