Philadelphia, PA - Current forecasts are calling for 1 to 3 inches of snow beginning early Thursday and tapering off early in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to below freezing throughout the day and evening. The Streets Department will have 85 pieces of equipment ready to treat the streets with over 40,000 tons of salt available.
This is planned to be a salting operation of primary and secondary roads, bridge decks and streets in higher elevations, however, crews will be prepared to plow if the conditions change. Salting of roads will not begin until the snow arrives. The size of the Department’s salting operation will depend on the forecast at the time, but crews will be on standby for deployment. Crews will remain on-duty overnight to monitor roadways and respond to problem locations and emergencies.
The snow is expected to impact the morning commute. Motorists are asked to allow extra time and maintain safe driving distances to allow for sudden stopping. The frigid temperatures and cold ground will make it easy for snow to accumulate and cause slippery travel on untreated roadways.
Salting is more effective than plowing when low snow accumulations and temperatures are expected. Plowing can leave behind a sheet of ice. In these conditions, salt mixed into the snow by traffic allows the accumulation to become a “crunchy” snow, which allows for slush to develop providing traction, and a safer road surface than a sheet of ice.
Streets Commissioner Carlton Williams urges citizens to follow these simple tips for a successful snow and ice management partnership:
- Have shovels and de-icing supplies ready.
- Salt steps and sidewalks early to prevent sticking.
- Shovel a pathway at least 3 feet wide within six hours of the end of the storm.
- Pile snow on the sidewalk along the curb line. Shoveling snow into a plowed street hinders plowing efforts and it is illegal.
Snow Day Places to Eat and Drink in Philly - Hay Philly!! Looks like snow is in the forecast for this evening which means it's time for a bevy of snow day jawns from some of Philly's top bars and restaurants. These food and booze deals make venturing out into the winter wonderland worth it.
