Winter Storm Targets Abington Area: Latest Forecast, Cancellations, How To Prepare

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA — Residents in Abington and Cheltenham townships and Jenkintown and Rockledge boroughs are bracing for a winter storm this weekend that could bring heavy snow accumulations to those communities and the Philadelphia region.

Patch has compiled the latest forecast, storm preparation suggestions, reported closures, updates on snow emergencies, and other information people need to know as the storm is set to pound the area with forecasters anticipating anywhere from 12-18 inches of snow.

Patch will provide updates throughout the day on Friday as more announcements are made on closures, schools, roads and highways, businesses, and more.

Latest Forecast

• Sleet and freezing rain chances have increased for the Interstate 95 corridor, which would lessen snow accumulation across most of the county, the National Weather Service of Mount Holly, N.J., reported on Friday morning.
• A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from 10 p.m. Friday until 10 a.m. on Saturday. A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from 7 p.m. on Saturday through 1 p.m. on Monday.
• Hazards: Significant snowfall accumulations are still expected, but may be closer to 12 inches due to the mixing of snow and sleet or freezing rain nearer to the Interstate 95 corridor. A dangerous stretch of cold is expected with wind chills in the single digits or below zero.
• Impacts: Heavy snow and ice accumulation will make travel dangerous or impossible. Expect widespread road closures and delays. Some power outages and tree damage is possible with ice accumulations. Dangerous cold could result in hypothermia and frostbite for those outside for long periods and may impact infrastructure due to increased heating demand.
• Timing: Dangerous cold temperatures are expected to begin Friday night and will continue throughout next week. Snow is expected Saturday night through early Monday afternoon. The mix of snow and sleet, and freezing rain is likely during the day on Sunday.

Snow Emergency

The Abington Township Police Department has declared a snow emergency starting at Noon on Saturday through Noon on Tuesday.

Jenkintown Borough has declared a snow emergency from 7 p.m. Saturday to 4 p.m. on Monday.

Abington Township is reminding residents of the ordinances regarding snow and ice removal after a storm:

• Residents are required to clear their sidewalks of snow and ice within 24 hours after snow has stopped falling.
• Removed snow must not be placed in the street.
• Corner properties must clear the sidewalk to enable pedestrians to cross the street.
• Do not cover fire hydrants with snow. If you have a hydrant on your property, clear a 3 ft. perimeter around the hydrant for firefighters to work.
• When a Snow Emergency has been declared, no parking is allowed on the Snow Emergency Routes, which can be viewed at https://www.abingtonpa.gov/332/Snow-Routes-Removal.

The Abington Township Police Department is offering some key points to remember:

• Check on neighbors: Regularly check in on elderly or those living alone, particularly during heavy snowfall or extreme cold weather.
• Clear walkways: Shovel your sidewalks and pathways promptly to prevent slips and falls for yourself and others. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow, lift with your legs, and take breaks if needed. Do not shovel snow back into the roadway!
• Access to fire hydrants: Keep the area around fire hydrants clear of snow for emergency access.
• Snow removal assistance: Offer to help shovel snow for neighbors who may have difficulty doing so.
• Ice prevention: Pile snow away from your home's foundation and sidewalks to prevent melting snow from refreezing and creating slippery patches.
• Communication: Let your neighbors know if you plan to be away during a snowstorm and make arrangements for checking on your property.

Reported Closures

• No closures have been reported at this time.

School District Plans

• The Abington School District has yet to announce plans for its schools on Monday.
• The Cheltenham School District has yet to announce plans for its schools on Monday.
• Arcadia University in Glenside will shift campus operations and classes on Sunday and Monday to virtual operations.
• Penn State Abington has yet to announce school plans for next week.
• The School District of Jenkintown has outlined its planning and preparations for school next week: (Monday) If schools close, it will be a traditional snow day. (Tuesday) If school closes, it will be a traditional snow day with a makeup day on April 6. (Wednesday) If schools close, the district will have its first Flexible Instruction Day. On a FID, students are expected to sign into their school-issued devices to receive synchronous, direct instruction from their teacher(s).

Transportation Delays Possible

Besides access to local roads and highways being limited due to the storm, SEPTA officials are warning of disruptions and possible service shutdowns on its regional rail lines.

Major Storm History

The last time at least 12 inches of snow in one day in Philadelphia was on Jan. 23, 2016, when 19.6 inches of snow fell, according to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, N.J.

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Storm Preparation Tips

The Pennsylvania Turnpike has issued a "Severe Winter Weather Alert" for its roadway, with heavy snow and dangerous conditions expected this weekend. The PA Turnpike issued these tips:

• Adjust plans accordingly
• Check antifreeze, battery, wipers, and washer fluid
• Fill gas tank, check tire tread, and pressure
• Pack warm clothes, blankets, chargers, and food and water in your vehicle
• Expect restrictions and icy roadways across the system

The National Weather Service has provided preparation ideas in the wake of the upcoming storm.

Click here to see the preparation ideas