As a winter storm looms over the United States, state and local governments are racing against the clock to prepare for the potentially disastrous weather conditions. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has declared a snow emergency, which will take effect at 9 p.m. Saturday, with vehicles prohibited from parking on designated routes.
Residents are being warned to limit unnecessary travel and stay off the roads as the city prepares for up to 12 inches of snow, accompanied by sleet and freezing rain. The Philadelphia Streets Department has mobilized 1,000 workers, 600 pieces of equipment, and 30,000 tons of salt in an effort to keep streets clear.
Despite these efforts, residents are being asked to take responsibility for clearing walkways and driveways, with tickets possible six hours after the storm ends if snow is not cleared. The city's sanitation department has also suspended trash collection, with all pickups pushed back by a day.
Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has declared a state of emergency, citing conditions that are "the likes of which we haven't seen in probably about a decade." Snowfall totals are expected to be as high as 10 inches, with mixed precipitation and wind gusts reaching up to 30 mph.
SEPTA is warning riders to expect slower service and possible suspensions of some lines, with general manager Scott Sauer stating that "almost certainly" includes trip cancellations. The agency recommends using the Broad Street and Market-Frankford lines to navigate the city, as they are primarily underground.
Travelers are advised to check flight status before heading to Philadelphia International Airport, which is expecting a handful of cancellations and delays throughout the weekend. Residents are also warned against traveling during the storm, with the National Weather Service advising against it due to hazardous conditions.
As the storm draws closer, city officials are urging residents to be prepared for long-lasting power outages and downed power lines, which could lead to disruptions in daily life. The city's warming centers will remain open, providing shelter and essential services to those in need.
Residents are being warned to limit unnecessary travel and stay off the roads as the city prepares for up to 12 inches of snow, accompanied by sleet and freezing rain. The Philadelphia Streets Department has mobilized 1,000 workers, 600 pieces of equipment, and 30,000 tons of salt in an effort to keep streets clear.
Despite these efforts, residents are being asked to take responsibility for clearing walkways and driveways, with tickets possible six hours after the storm ends if snow is not cleared. The city's sanitation department has also suspended trash collection, with all pickups pushed back by a day.
Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has declared a state of emergency, citing conditions that are "the likes of which we haven't seen in probably about a decade." Snowfall totals are expected to be as high as 10 inches, with mixed precipitation and wind gusts reaching up to 30 mph.
SEPTA is warning riders to expect slower service and possible suspensions of some lines, with general manager Scott Sauer stating that "almost certainly" includes trip cancellations. The agency recommends using the Broad Street and Market-Frankford lines to navigate the city, as they are primarily underground.
Travelers are advised to check flight status before heading to Philadelphia International Airport, which is expecting a handful of cancellations and delays throughout the weekend. Residents are also warned against traveling during the storm, with the National Weather Service advising against it due to hazardous conditions.
As the storm draws closer, city officials are urging residents to be prepared for long-lasting power outages and downed power lines, which could lead to disruptions in daily life. The city's warming centers will remain open, providing shelter and essential services to those in need.