Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker Addresses Winter Storm Response and Cold Snap

Winter Storm Impact and Response

• ❄️ Philadelphia experienced approximately 9.1 inches of snowfall along with sleet, ice, and freezing rain in less than 12 hours, the most snow in 10 years.
• 🌨️ City crews have been working nonstop, melting nearly 900 tons of snow in 10 hours with a state-of-the-art machine.
• ✈️ Philadelphia International Airport remained open throughout the storm, servicing travelers and visitors.
• 📞 311 and 911 operators and their teams have been continuously responding to calls.

City Operations and Public Guidance

• 🏛️ The snow emergency will continue until further notice, with city offices and courts remaining closed on Tuesday.
• 🚗 Nearly 350 vehicles have been towed since Sunday due to being on snow emergency routes; residents can call 215-686-SNOW for retrieval information.
• 🚶 Residents and business owners are required to remove snow at least 36 inches wide from sidewalks for pedestrian safety, with non-compliance resulting in fines.
• 🚫 Residents are urged not to sweep snow into the street, as it creates hazards and slows removal efforts.

Extreme Cold and Vulnerable Populations

• 🥶 Bitter cold temperatures are expected, with overnight lows in the single digits for the remainder of the week, posing additional challenges.
• 🏠 City teams are staffing warming shelters, responding to calls, supporting utilities, and maintaining essential services.
• 🆘 An emergency shelter was opened at the L and Young Recreation Center within 90 minutes to accommodate an overflow of people needing cold transportation.
• ☎️ For those in distress or needing help due to the cold, residents can call 215-232-1984 or visit phila.gov/getwarm.

Infrastructure and Services Updates

• 💧 The Philadelphia Water Department is in an enhanced operational posture, preparing for potential water main breaks and monitoring river conditions.
• 🚌 SEPTA is restoring bus routes and most metro service (subways, trolleys) operated uninterrupted; Regional Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule.
• 🗑️ Trash collection will resume on a holiday schedule for the remainder of the week, with driveway collections still suspended.
• ⚠️ Residents are advised to prepare for potential overload on the energy grid and water infrastructure due to extreme cold.

Community and Workforce Appreciation

• 💪 The Mayor expressed immense pride in the municipal workforce for their tireless efforts during the storm and cold snap.
• 🤝 Residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors, especially seniors and those living alone.
• 🐶 Pet owners are reminded to limit pets' time outdoors and ensure they are protected from the cold.
• ❓ Officials asked for grace and patience from the public as crews continue around-the-clock work to clear all streets and address remaining issues.