After snow, high winds and low temps in store for Philly evening commute

The snow may be melting after this morning’s storm, but those in the Philadelphia region who did not get the day off could still have a rough commute home.

While the National Weather Service had predicted 5 to 6 inches of snow for Philadelphia, the Office of Emergency Management said it had only recorded 2 inches. Totals reached up to 5 inches in the Philadelphia suburbs, said office director Samantha Phillips during a City Hall briefing.

“Unfortunately, the trouble is not over for SEPTA,” said general manager Jeff Knueppel.

The Philadelphia area is under a wind advisory until 6 p.m. night, and gusts could reach 50 mph, so commuters should expect delays.

“Downed trees and wires will be likely, so we would ask our riders to check SEPTA.org for any service impacts as the day progresses,” Knueppel said.

Temperatures are also expected to drop to about 20 degrees tonight. While the city has already used about 8,000 tons of salt on the roadways, slippery conditions are possible. 

City officials are also asking those out and about in Philadelphia to keep an eye out for anyone who appears to be experiencing homelessness and to report sightings by calling Project HOME’s Code Blue hotline at 215-232-1984.