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“Snow days offer special moments for our students to experience the joy and wonder of winter. We encourage families to embrace this opportunity to build memories together, while exercising appropriate caution during winter weather conditions,” Watlington said.
In addition, all Philadelphia city offices will be closed Monday.
Travel impacts
Amtrak announced cancellations Sunday for Acela and Northeast Regional trains operating between Boston and Washington, D.C., due to the severe weather.
Philadelphia International Airport is also recommending passengers check with their airlines for changes to their flight schedules.
NJ Transit is monitoring forecasts and plans to operate on its full, regular weekday schedule for as long as conditions allow.
The Philadelphia Streets Department began treating major roadways with salt to help prevent ice from forming before the brunt of the storm. Two hundred pieces of equipment will be deployed to address road conditions when the winter weather hits, according to a social media statement.
NWS meteorologist Mike Lee said expected wind gusts could create more work for road crews after the storm.
“Even though we’ve potentially cleared the roads … the winds could pick up the snow again and start moving things around and we end up with a little bit of blowing snow,” he said. “Some locations could see snow cover on the roads again.”
With the brunt of the storm expected during Monday’s morning commute, taking precautions on the road are advised if you have to travel.
“Exercise caution on the roadways, give yourself extra time, drive slowly,” Lee said. “If you don’t have to travel, just don’t.”
Bitter cold to last the week
Temperatures are expected to stay below freezing until Friday, with wind chills dropping into the single digits overnight.
The city of Philadelphia is under a Code Blue advisory to provide additional protections for people experiencing homelessness. Additional shelter beds will be provided at city-funded homeless intake centers, and 24-hour outreach will be available to help transport people to safe indoor spaces.