Roxborough High School to open as shelter on Saturday

As Hurricane Irene approaches, officials are setting up shelter operations in flood-prone pockets of Philadelphia.  

Roxborough High School on Ridge Avenue will open to those displaced by the storm in Northwest Philadelphia starting at 6 p.m. on Saturday.  Lincoln High School and Bartram High School will also be open. 

“This is a dangerous storm, and I want to urge our residents to exercise extreme caution,” said Mayor Michael Nutter. “Residents and businesses in low lying areas should prepare immediately. If you need to evacuate, please leave as quickly as possible for your own safety.”

The National Weather Service is forecasting that Irene will be a Category One hurricane by the time it hits the coast of New Jersey.  As a result, Philadelphia can expect rainfall amounts between six and nine inches, wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph and flooding of creeks and streams.  

  • WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

Main Street in Manayunk, Lincoln Drive and Kelly Drive are all areas of flood concern. 

Those staying at home are encouraged to prepare themselves with flashlights, non-perishable foods and a first aid kit. 

SEPTA has suspended all service after 12:30 a.m. on Sunday due to storm conditions. 

For more information on how to prepare, check out the city’s complete guide

WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal