Philadelphia is bracing for a significant winter storm, with a Snow Emergency declared by Mayor Cherelle Parker, effective at . The declaration mandates the removal of vehicles from designated Snow Emergency Routes to facilitate plowing and ensure public safety.
The city’s Department of Streets is urging residents to consult the city’s website for a comprehensive list of Snow Emergency Routes and information regarding vehicle towing procedures.
In anticipation of heavy snowfall, the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) will offer discounted parking at select Center City garages, beginning at . A flat rate of $5 for 24-hour parking will be available at the following locations:
- AutoPark at Independence Mall (5th &. Market Streets)
- AutoPark at Jefferson (10th & Ludlow Streets)
- AutoPark at the Fashion District (10th & Filbert Streets)
- AutoPark at Old City (2nd & Sansom Streets)
- Parkade on 8th (801 Filbert Street)
Customers seeking the discounted rate must present their parking ticket and pay at the PPA Management Office within each garage.
Residential street parking restrictions will be temporarily suspended beginning at , with meter and time limit violations on residential blocks unenforced until the Snow Emergency is lifted.
School and City Office Closures
The School District of Philadelphia will transition to fully remote learning on , with all district buildings closed. All after-school activities, including athletic programs and professional development sessions, have also been canceled for that day.
All City of Philadelphia administrative office buildings and courts will also be closed to the public on . This closure extends to nonessential residential services provided by departments such as Licenses & Inspections, Revenue, and Water Revenue, as well as Neighborhood Community Action Centers.
Impact on City Services
The city’s sanitation schedule will be disrupted. Trash pickup is suspended on and , and will subsequently be delayed by two days throughout the week. Rear driveway trash collections are also suspended, and areas typically receiving a second trash collection during the week will receive only one collection.
Residents unable to store their trash are encouraged to utilize one of the city’s six sanitation convenience centers, which will remain open from Monday through Saturday. A list of locations is available at Phila.gov/Sanitation.
Transportation Updates
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) riders are advised to allow extra travel time and to monitor SEPTA.org/alerts for the latest service updates. SEPTA will provide notifications regarding any delays, detours, or route suspensions via its website, alerts system, and mobile app.
Travelers at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) are also advised to check their flight status and road conditions before departing for the airport on and . Information can be obtained by contacting airlines directly, calling 1-800-PHL-GATE (745-4283), or visiting the airport’s website at PHL.org. Airport officials have confirmed snow removal operations are planned throughout the duration of the storm.
City officials have mobilized significant resources for snow removal, including the deployment of two snow melters. At the peak of the storm, approximately 1,000 personnel and 800 pieces of equipment will be actively engaged in clearing roadways.
Mayor Cherelle Parker, who assumed office on , becoming the 100th mayor of Philadelphia and the first woman to hold the office, has prioritized public safety and efficient city services since taking office. This snow emergency response reflects that commitment.
