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(Photo by Paul Buckowski/Albany Times Union via Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA – As measurable snowfall and bitter cold approach the Philadelphia area this weekend, weather forecasters are urging residents to prepare now, from stocking essentials to planning for potential disruptions to travel, schools and work.
What we know:
Snow is forecast to begin early Sunday morning and continue into the afternoon, with models indicating several inches of accumulation in Philadelphia and the surrounding region.
Bitter cold temperatures are expected before the snow arrives and will continue afterward, with highs near or below freezing and wind chills that can feel much colder.
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Officials recommend having enough supplies to last at least several days in case travel becomes difficult, according to the CDC.
That includes: Food that does not require refrigeration or cookingDrinking waterPrescription medications and basic first-aid suppliesFlashlights, batteries and phone chargersBlankets, warm clothing and extra layersBaby supplies or pet food if needed
It’s also a good idea to make sure you have rock salt or ice melt and a working snow shovel.
20 November 2024, Lower Saxony, Garbsen: An excavator loads road salt onto its shovel. Photo: Alicia Windzio/dpa (Photo by Alicia Windzio/picture alliance via Getty Images)
Travel prep before snow begins
If you need to drive during or after the storm, preparation is critical.
Before snow arrives: Fill up your gas tankCheck windshield wipers, tires and antifreezeKeep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, snacks, water and a flashlightMonitor road conditions and weather alerts
Once snow begins, travel can become treacherous quickly, especially on major routes like I-95 and local roads. Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel during and immediately after snowfall.
School and work planning
Snow and icy conditions can lead to delays, early dismissals or closures for schools and some workplaces.
Families are encouraged to: Review remote learning or work-from-home plansMake childcare arrangements in advanceKeep an eye on district announcements and employer updates
Planning ahead can help reduce stress if schedules change quickly, according to FEMA.
FILE – A young woman scratches snow and ice from the windscreen of her car. (Carmen Jaspersen/picture alliance via Getty Images)
Stay safe during extreme cold and possible power outages
In addition to snow, dangerously cold temperatures can pose serious health risks, especially if power outages occur.
According to FEMA, extreme cold can increase the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and house fires, particularly when people rely on alternative heating sources.Â
Officials recommend: Installing and testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your homeKeeping anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters and fireplacesNever using an oven, grill or generator to heat your homeUsing generators only outdoors and at least 20 feet away from doors and windows
If the power goes out and indoor temperatures become unsafe, FEMA advises relocating to a heated community space if one is available.
What we don’t know:
The exact total of snow and the duration of impacts depend on the storm’s track and strength. Some models show more snow farther northwest, while others keep totals closer to the I-95 corridor.
Forecasts may change leading up to the event, and officials say conditions can vary widely across the region.
Why you should care:
Even a few inches of snow combined with bitter cold and icy conditions can halt travel, disrupt routines and create hazardous conditions, especially during peak travel times.
Preparing now, before stores become crowded and roads become slick, can help you avoid last-minute stress and stay safe through the storm.
What’s next:
Residents are encouraged to: Monitor updated forecasts from the National Weather Service and FOX 29.Sign up for weather and emergency alertsFollow guidance from local officials as the storm approaches
The Source: This article was written using information from emergency preparedness guidance issued by the CDC, FEMA and local officials.