A major winter storm is impacting travel and daily life across the Delaware Valley. Widespread closures, service suspensions, and travel restrictions are in effect as the region braces for significant snowfall and hazardous conditions.
School Closures and Flexible Instruction
Philadelphia Public Schools
The School District of Philadelphia will be closed on Monday. Students were sent home with charged Chromebooks on Friday, and the district will transition to virtual learning as needed later in the week.
Philly Archdiocesan Schools
Archdiocesan high schools and parochial elementary schools will utilize “Flexible Instruction Days.” Students and parents should consult their local school website for specific details, according to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
Travel Disruptions
The National Weather Service anticipates widespread road closures and significant delays on major interstates. Vehicle restrictions are currently in place across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
In Delaware, Level 2 driving restrictions, issued by Gov. Matt Meyer, are in effect for New Castle and Kent counties, limiting travel to essential workers, including snowplow operators.
PennDOT, PA Turnpike
PennDOT has reduced speed limits to 45 mph on Interstates 76, 95, 295, 476, and 676, as well as U.S. Routes 1, 30, 202, and 422, and State Routes 63, 100 Spur, and 309.
Tier 4 vehicle restrictions are in effect for all Pennsylvania interstates and the PA Turnpike, prohibiting commercial vehicles, school buses, motor coaches, motorcycles, RVs/motorhomes, and passenger vehicles towing trailers.
Public Transportation
SEPTA will suspend all Regional Rail, bus, and Metro Route G1 service starting at 2 p.m. Sunday. T1 service is suspended, while remaining T lines will operate with reduced service. Subway routes L, B, D, and M will continue to run, though riders should expect delays and check for alerts at SEPTA.org or the SEPTA app.
NJ Transit has temporarily suspended bus, light rail, and Access Link services. Rail service will be suspended at 2 p.m. Sunday. Riders are advised to monitor NJ Transit service updates online.
PATCO will operate on modified schedules through Monday, with trains running every 30 minutes on Sunday and every 15-20 minutes on Monday. Travel times may be up to 30 minutes longer on Sunday and 10 minutes longer on Monday due to slower operating speeds. Riders can sign up for alerts at ridepatco.org/alerts.
Air Travel
More than 13,500 flights across the U.S. have been canceled since Saturday, according to FlightAware, potentially making Sunday the highest cancellation day since the pandemic. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has canceled most flights for Sunday and at least 60 flights scheduled for Monday. Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is currently closed with all Sunday flights canceled. Passengers should confirm their flight status directly with their airline.
City Services Impact
Trash and recycling collection will be suspended on Monday, with the remainder of the week’s collection schedule shifted back one day. Second trash collection is suspended for the week. Residents can still drop off trash at city sanitation convenience centers.
All cases scheduled for Monday in Philadelphia courts will be rescheduled, with the exception of Orphans’ Court, which will proceed virtually. Those summoned for jury duty on Monday are excused. In-person visits at Philadelphia Department of Prisons facilities are canceled. However, Preliminary Arraignment Court, OJR bail acceptance, and emergency abuse protection petition filings will remain operational.
All city administrative office buildings and Philadelphia Department of Public Health centers will be closed on Monday. Residents can track snowplow operations through PlowPHL at streetsmartphl.phila.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
What travel restrictions are in place in Pennsylvania?
Tier 4 vehicle restrictions are in effect for all Pennsylvania interstates and the PA Turnpike, prohibiting certain vehicles from travel. Speed limits have also been reduced to 45 mph on several key highways.
Will SEPTA services be running on Monday?
SEPTA will suspend all Regional Rail, bus and Metro Route G1 service starting at 2 p.m. Sunday. T1 service is suspended, and remaining T lines have reduced service. Subway routes L, B, D and M will continue to run.
What should I do if my flight is canceled?
Passengers should confirm their flight status directly with their airline.
As the storm progresses, residents are encouraged to stay informed and heed all safety warnings issued by local authorities. How will you adjust your plans to navigate these challenging conditions?
