A winter storm is set to impact the region on Tuesday, bringing a mixture of snow and rain starting around 3 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. The Pennsylvania suburbs, along with Berks and Lehigh counties, are under a First Alert advisory from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. on December 2.
The impending storm, which is the result of a coastal low moving in as a high-pressure system departs, is expected to deliver a mix of precipitation. Fortunately, the latest forecasts indicate a decrease in anticipated snow totals, with meaningful accumulation more likely to occur north of Interstate 78 and in the higher elevations of the Poconos.
In preparation for the storm, brine trucks have been deployed to ensure roads are ready for the morning commute. The Lehigh Valley is forecasted to see temperatures remain below freezing throughout the day, leading to total snow accumulations of one to three inches. Meanwhile, the Poconos may receive between three to five inches, with higher elevations possibly experiencing up to six inches of snow.
Heavy rain is expected in Philadelphia and neighboring areas, including Delaware County, Montgomery County, South Jersey, and Delaware, tapering off by around 2 p.m. on Tuesday. With plowable snow anticipated across Pennsylvania, preparations are in full swing. Crews have already begun treating roads along the 565-mile Pennsylvania Turnpike system. Vehicle restrictions will come into effect starting at 5 a.m. on Tuesday across many interstates, including the Northeast Extension from the Lehigh Valley to Clarks Summit.
According to Marissa Orbanek, the press secretary for the Pennsylvania Turnpike, over 600 equipment operators and safety personnel are on standby to clear approximately 2,900 miles of lanes. The Turnpike’s winter staffing program has been in place since mid-November, with 23 maintenance sheds staffed around the clock to facilitate efficient snow removal efforts.
As the storm winds down Tuesday night, colder air will move in, potentially leading to slick spots on the roads by Wednesday morning. Residents are encouraged to prepare for the winter weather and stay updated by tracking the storm through local news sources.