
The National Weather Service in Philadelphia has issued a winter storm warning effective from 10 a.m. today until 1 a.m. EST tomorrow for several counties, including Delaware, eastern Montgomery, Lower Bucks, and Philadelphia. Residents should brace for heavy snowfall and difficult travel conditions.
The forecast, according to the NWS, predicts total snow accumulations between 4 and 6 inches, as snow, possibly mixed with rain, will become heavy at times starting in the afternoon, with a 100% chance of precipitation and snowfall rates hitting up to an inch per hour this afternoon, the temperatures are expected to drop significantly tonight causing icy conditions that may persist even after the snow stops.
"Travel could be very difficult," the NWS stated, with "areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility." Local authorities are advising residents to travel only if necessary and to pack an emergency kit with essentials such as an extra flashlight, food, and water.
For MLK Day, the skies will clear but the temperature will hover just around 24 degrees, with gusty winds that could make the real feel significantly colder residents should take caution as the wind chill values could go as low as -3; the remainder of the week promises a cold front with highs remaining well below freezing, and there's a 30% chance of snow again come Tuesday night.