Snow, Sleet, and Ice Forecasted for Philadelphia Region This Friday

A significant winter storm is set to impact the Philadelphia region on Friday, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and ice. According to the National Weather Service’s Mount Holly Branch, a Winter Weather Advisory will be in effect from 1 p.m. Friday until 10 a.m. Saturday for portions of Southeast Pennsylvania, South Jersey, and northern Delaware.

The weather is expected to begin as snow between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., with some areas transitioning to sleet. The city of Philadelphia, along with parts of the northwest suburbs and the Lehigh Valley, could see accumulations of 1-3 inches of snow, with the city likely reaching closer to 1 inch. Drivers should prepare for slippery road conditions, especially during the evening commute.

In New Jersey, similar forecasts apply, with Winter Storm Warnings issued for western Monmouth, Middlesex, and Somerset counties. These areas are expected to receive between 3-5 inches of snow during the same time frame. A forecast map indicates that the Philadelphia region may experience hazardous conditions with the potential for significant snowfall and sleet.

Code Blue Measures in Effect

As temperatures are expected to dip near or below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, a Code Blue alert has been declared in Philadelphia, remaining in effect until 11 a.m. Saturday. This declaration prompts city officials to implement special measures aimed at protecting individuals experiencing homelessness.

During a Code Blue event, the city engages in 24-hour outreach efforts to locate unhoused individuals and transport them to safe indoor spaces. Additionally, all available beds within the city’s emergency housing network are opened for those in need. Residents encountering individuals who appear to be without shelter are encouraged to contact the city’s Homeless Outreach hotline at 215-232-1984 for assistance.

For those in the Philadelphia area, staying informed about the evolving weather conditions is crucial. Regular updates will be provided by local news outlets, including WHYY News, which remains committed to delivering fact-based, in-depth journalism. As a nonprofit organization, WHYY relies on the generous support of its readers to continue its vital reporting.

With the forecast predicting a challenging weather event, residents are advised to stay safe, plan accordingly, and look out for one another during this winter storm.