Philly weather: Snow emergency issued ahead slippery road conditions

From winter storm warning to a snow emergency, officials are breaking down what you need to know amid the snowy weather. 

Plus, Philly area residents reacted to the storm.

What we know:

A winter storm warning is in effect in Philadelphia until 1 a.m. Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

The City of Philadelphia declared a Snow Emergency in Philly which takes effect at 9 p.m.

Delaware, Eastern Montgomery, Lower Bucks, and Philadelphia counties are projected to get between 2-4 inches of snow. 

Portions of South Jersey will likely receive up to 3 inches of snow.

Roads will likely become slippery and slick as temperatures are expected to fall well below freezing Sunday night. 

PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear, with the goal of keeping roads passable.

When the city announces a snow emergency, vehicles must be moved off Snow Emergency Routes in Philadelphia. 

Reduced Speed Limits

PennDOT reduced speed limits on several Philly roadways. 

PennDOT is urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel, but those who do will see speeds reduced to 45 mph on the following highways:

  • Interstates 76, 95, 295, 476, 676.
  • U.S. Routes 1, 30, 202, 422.
  • State Routes 63, 100 Spur and 309.

The Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) is offering a flat twenty-four-hour $5 parking rate at the following Center City garages beginning 7 p.m. Sunday until the snow emergency is lifted.

Starting at 9 p.m. Sunday, meter/kiosk, and time limit violations on residential blocks will not be enforced pending the lift of the snow emergency.

What they're saying:

"While the total snowfall amount is not yet confirmed, it is necessary for our Streets Department and all other City departments to be able to be ready to operate at snow emergency level," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "We are always focused on the safety of our residents and all departments are working 24/7 to make sure we are fully prepared."

Even though many residents were enjoying the snow, PennDot wants to send the message that safety is important in these storms. 

 "Avoid travel, of course. If you can sit it out it, please do, we have trucks out around the clock. We have more than 430 trucks out in the 5 county region," said Brad Rudolph, with the PA Department of Transportation. 

 He continued to say that there are speed restrictions due to visibility concerns. 

 "Snow covered roads, you know, we are keeping them passable but you know if you do have to travel, use caution. Make sure you are prepared for the conditions, watch your speed and make sure to watch everyone around you."

Even though there are plenty of trucks out salting, the holiday weekend presents unique challenges. Rudolph told Fox29 that despite the lack of morning commuters, there are still a lot of travelers who plan on coming back on this Monday holiday. 

 He warns that you must drive with caution and be aware of black ice.

 "We are going to have some really dangerous conditions, even after the storm is cleared up we are working overnight treating areas that are still wet with temperatures dropping and refreezing," he said.

Local perspective:

For one Norristown family, the snow brough a unique opportunity to show visiting relatives their first snow storm.

"They come from Colombia and it’s his first time in the snow," Susan Gonzalez said. 

Playing in the snow and enjoying this new experience the Valasco sisters were elated. 

"Yeah I mean i thought it was amazing with this incredible really. I am so excited with the snow and it is really cold but it is really exciting I like it," said one sister.

What you can do:

For more information on safe winter travel, an emergency kit checklist and information on PennDOT’s winter operations including a video, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/winter. Additional winter driving and other highway safety information is available at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. 

For the latest road conditions, call 5 1 1.

If your vehicle is relocated during the Snow Emergency, call 215-686-SNOW to find it. Do not call 911.

The Source: The information in this article is from the City of Philadelphia, PennDOT and the National Weather Service.

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