At a Glance
- A significant snowstorm is expected to hit the Philadelphia region from Saturday through Monday
- The National Weather Service warns of “several inches of snowfall” with potential for six or more inches
- Wednesday marked the coldest morning of the season so far
- Local municipalities are already preparing with fresh salt supplies
Why it matters: The region could see its second consecutive weekend of significant snowfall, potentially causing major travel disruptions.
The Philadelphia area is bracing for what could be a major snowstorm this weekend, with forecasters warning of potentially significant snowfall across the region.
According to News Of Philadelphia‘s First Alert Weather team, snow is expected to begin falling Saturday evening and continue through Sunday night, possibly extending into Monday. However, meteorologists caution that the exact path of the storm remains uncertain, making it difficult to predict precise snowfall totals.
Storm Timing and Impact
The National Weather Service has characterized the approaching weather system as a “significant storm” that will impact the region from Saturday through Sunday night. Current projections suggest the area could see six or more inches of accumulation.
News Of Philadelphia First Alert Weather meteorologist Bill Henley noted that Wednesday morning was the coldest the region has experienced this season so far. The frigid temperatures are expected to persist through the weekend, creating ideal conditions for snow accumulation.
The uncertainty surrounding the storm’s exact track means snowfall totals could vary significantly across different parts of the region. Forecasters emphasize that weather models could shift between now and Saturday evening when the precipitation is expected to begin.
Local Preparations Underway
Communities throughout the Philadelphia area aren’t taking any chances as they prepare for the potential winter storm. Municipalities have begun readying their equipment and supplies to handle whatever the storm brings.
Michael A. Turner visited Plymouth Meeting in Montgomery County on Wednesday morning to observe local preparations. The municipality recently received a new shipment of road salt, which proved essential after last weekend’s storm brought a mix of snow, freezing rain, and ice to the area.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) reports having adequate salt supplies on hand. Officials stated they plan to support local communities as needed once the storm’s impact becomes clearer.
What to Expect
Residents should prepare for:
- Snow beginning Saturday evening
- Several inches of accumulation possible
- Frigid temperatures throughout the weekend
- Potential travel disruptions
- Ongoing uncertainty about exact totals
The National Weather Service will continue monitoring the storm’s development and refine forecasts as the system approaches. Forecasters recommend staying updated on the latest weather information as small changes in the storm’s path could significantly alter expected snowfall amounts.
Key Takeaways
The Philadelphia region faces the possibility of substantial snowfall this weekend, with the National Weather Service warning of a “significant storm.” While exact totals remain uncertain, the potential exists for six or more inches of snow from Saturday through Monday. Local municipalities are already preparing with fresh salt supplies, and residents should monitor forecasts as the storm approaches.
