A winter storm is set to arrive over Pennsylvania on Tuesday, starting around 3 a.m. and continuing for most of the day. The storm will bring a mix of snow and rain, with temperatures expected to stay below freezing in the Lehigh Valley. Residents are advised to prepare for slippery roads and possible school closures. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has issued a First Alert for the suburbs, Berks and Lehigh counties from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 2.
Storm Overview
The storm follows a departing high‑pressure system that has cleared the region, allowing a coastal low to arrive. NBC10’s Johnny Archer reported that “Brine trucks were out getting the roads ready for the Tuesday morning commute.” The system is arriving later and warmer than earlier forecasts, which has pushed expected snow totals down. Snow is most likely to accumulate north of Interstate 78 and in the higher elevations of the Poconos. The forecast calls for 1 to 3 inches of snow in the Lehigh Valley and 3 to 5 inches in the Poconos, with up to 6 inches at the highest elevations.
Rain and Temperature
Heavy rain is expected for Philadelphia, Delaware County, Montgomery County, South Jersey and Delaware, tapering off by 2 p.m. on Tuesday. Temperatures in the Lehigh Valley will remain below freezing, producing solid snow throughout the day. The Poconos will see a greater snow accumulation due to its higher elevation. The mix of rain and snow will create challenging driving conditions across the state.
Road Preparation
Lane treatment began on Monday, with crews treating the 565‑mile Pennsylvania Turnpike system. Marissa Orbanek, the turnpike’s press secretary, said that “More than 600 equipment operators and safety workers are available to help clear the turnpike’s 2,900 miles of lanes.” She added that the winter staffing schedule began in mid‑November and that 23 maintenance sheds are staffed around the clock. “We really prepare for snow all year long,” Orbanek said. Vehicle restrictions will be imposed on many interstates in the eastern half of Pennsylvania, including the turnpike’s Northeast Extension from the Lehigh Valley to Clarks Summit, starting at 5 a.m. Tuesday.
Public Information
The First Alert Weather team has posted updates on the NBC10 app and on the NBC10 website. Residents can check whether their schools will be open or closed for Tuesday by clicking the link provided in the article. The storm is expected to taper off Tuesday night as colder air returns, which could create slick spots by Wednesday morning. NBC10’s Deanna Durante urged that “With snowy and rainy weather on the way for Tuesday morning, it’s time for everyone to make sure they are prepared.”
Takeaways
- Snow totals are trending down, with most accumulation north of I‑78 and in the Poconos.
- Vehicle restrictions will begin at 5 a.m. Tuesday on the turnpike’s Northeast Extension.
- More than 600 crew members and 23 maintenance sheds are ready to clear the 2,900‑mile turnpike.
Pennsylvania residents should stay alert for changing conditions, keep their vehicles ready for snow and rain, and follow the First Alert Weather team’s guidance. The winter storm will bring a mix of precipitation and icy roads, making travel on Tuesday risky. By staying informed and prepared, commuters and school‑goers can navigate the storm safely.
