A winter storm is set to affect Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware starting tonight, with snow expected to fall into Sunday morning, bringing 1 to 5 inches of accumulation in various areas. The heaviest snow totals are anticipated along and southeast of I-95, particularly impacting parts of South Jersey and northern Delaware, including Philadelphia, where totals could reach 4 to 6 inches.
As of 3:45 PM, a Winter Storm Warning has been issued for Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington counties in New Jersey, along with Delaware County and Philadelphia. The National Weather Service in Mount Holly is advising residents that the snow will begin this evening, potentially starting with light rain before temperatures plummet and snow begins to accumulate on surfaces.
Here’s a breakdown of projected snowfall amounts from Saturday night into Sunday morning:
– Philadelphia: 4–6 inches
– Trenton: 4–6 inches
– Wilmington: 4–6 inches
– South Jersey: Ranging from 1–2 inches near Cape May to 2–3 inches around Atlantic City and more further north.
– Shore communities (including Atlantic City and Toms River): 3–4 inches
– Lehigh Valley and Reading: 3–4 inches
– Northern New Jersey (Sussex, Morris counties): 3–4 inches
The NWS indicates a 75% chance for Philadelphia to see 4 inches or more, with a 38% chance for even 6 inches or more. Areas southeast of I-95 may experience snowfall rates of 1 inch per hour.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate, with roads becoming snow-covered and slippery, especially after midnight. Reduced visibility may occur during heavier snow bands late evening through early morning. Wind gusts expected from Sunday into Monday could lead to blowing snow, further complicating travel.
In Bucks County, Warminster Township has declared a state of emergency starting at 6 PM Saturday to aid emergency management efforts in response to the storm.
Snowfall is expected to start at various times:
– Philadelphia: Around 11 PM
– South Jersey: Between 11 PM Saturday and 5 AM Sunday
– Lehigh Valley/Poconos: 8–9 PM Saturday
– Delaware: 11 PM to 7 AM Sunday
The most significant snowfall will occur from midnight to 9 AM Sunday. Following the storm, dangerously cold Arctic air is predicted to sweep through the region. Wind chills near 0°F are expected late Sunday into Monday morning, with even colder temperatures in the Poconos, including a forecasted wind chill of -7°F.
Monday will see air temperatures remaining below freezing in many areas. A Gale Warning will be in effect for Delaware Bay and New Jersey/Delaware coastal waters due to expected wind gusts of 35-40 knots and possible freezing spray.
Residents are urged to prepare for the impending cold weather, take precautions for pets and plumbing, and stay updated with advisories as the weather system unfolds.