Snow blanketed roads and sidewalks across Pennsylvania on Monday, January 6, 2025, as a major winter storm moved through the Keystone State. Early in the day, the heaviest snowfall arrived in Philadelphia and southeastern counties, creating hazardous conditions that prompted school closures, snow emergencies, and extended travel times on some of the region’s busiest roadways.
A winter storm warning continues for parts of Chester and Delaware counties through early Tuesday, while a winter weather advisory applies to Philadelphia and surrounding areas until late Monday night. Philadelphia is expected to see three to five inches of snow, with neighboring counties like Bucks and the northern edges of Montgomery likely receiving one to three inches. Farther south, areas near the Delaware border could get higher totals, which raises additional concerns for drivers navigating snow-clogged thoroughfares.
During midday hours, a ground stop went into effect at Philadelphia International Airport, briefly halting certain flights. Though the Federal Aviation Administration lifted the restriction within about 30 minutes, travelers continue to face potential delays and cancellations. Speed restrictions on the Pennsylvania Turnpike were lifted at noon, yet officials stress that icy patches may still be present on less-traveled sections of highway. Numerous municipalities have declared snow emergencies, allowing for more efficient road treatments and encouraging residents to avoid any unnecessary travel.
Maintenance crews in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs are plowing and salting major roads in an effort to minimize delays. Local emergency management teams recommend that those who must drive leave early to accommodate slower speeds and to avoid last-minute rushing. School districts across southeastern Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia public schools, cancelled classes out of concern for deteriorating road conditions and potential overnight refreezing.
Tips and Reminders for Safe Winter Driving
Drivers in the region should exercise extreme caution on snowy and icy roads. The following guidelines will reduce your risk of accidents:
- Slow Down and Leave Extra Room: Increase your following distance to allow more time to react if the car in front of you brakes suddenly or skids. This extra space can significantly reduce rear-end collisions.
- Check Your Tires and Lights: Ensure your tires have adequate tread and are properly inflated. Verify that your headlights, taillights, and brake lights are clear of snow and ice to help other drivers see you on the road.
- Brake Gently and Early: Sudden stops on ice or slush can lead to loss of control. Begin braking sooner than you normally would, and apply steady, even pressure to avoid skidding.
- Watch for Black Ice: Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas freeze more quickly than other parts of the road. Keep an eye out for patches that look wet but might actually be a thin layer of ice.
- Carry an Emergency Kit: Stock your vehicle with essentials like a flashlight, blanket, ice scraper, jumper cables, and a small shovel. Having bottled water and snacks on hand can be helpful if you experience a prolonged delay.
- Stay Alert and Patient: Plan your route ahead of time, and allow extra travel time to account for slower-moving traffic and weather-related detours. Rushing increases the likelihood of mistakes and accidents.
Pennsylvania state police continue to monitor conditions and assist drivers stranded by the snow. Motorists are asked to heed all advisories, drive defensively, and remain vigilant in order to reduce the risk of collisions. Snow may taper off for parts of the region by nightfall, though forecasters remain watchful for intermittent bursts that could leave roads slick through the late evening.
