Winter Storm Targets Doylestown: Latest Forecast, Cancellations, How To Prepare

DOYLESTOWN, PA — Residents in the Doylestown area are bracing for a winter storm on Sunday that could bring up to 10 inches of snow and sleet to the Philadelphia region.

Patch has compiled the latest forecast, storm preparation suggestions, reported closures, snow emergencies, and other information people need to know as the storm is set to pound the area with anywhere from 8 to 10 inches of snow.

Patch will provide updates 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 Bucks County, the National Weather Service of Mount Holly, N.J., reported Friday morning.
• A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 7 p.m. through 1 p.m. on Monday.
• Hazards: Significant snowfall accumulations are still expected, but may be closer to 8 to 10 inches due to the mixing of snow, sleet and freezing rain in the lower and central parts of the county with higher amounts in the northern end. The storm will be followed by a dangerous stretch of cold 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 Emergencies

• Doylestown Township has declared a snow emergency beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22. Under a snow emergency, parking on public streets in the township is prohibited to allow for efficient plowing and road maintenance operations. The township ordinance also strictly prohibits plowing, shoveling, or blowing snow onto public roads. Violators may be subject to fines.
• Doylestown Borough has declared a Winter Storm Emergency starting at 11 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, and lasting until snow emergency routes have been cleared. To help crews plow efficiently, residents are asked to avoid street parking whenever possible, even on non-emergency routes. Cars parked on designated snow emergency routes are subject to ticketing and towing. https://www.doylestownborough.net/pages/snow-ice-removal/ Parking will be available at the County Garage located at Broad and Union and at Broad and Court. They will be open and free to Borough residents thanks to the County of Bucks. Vehicles must be removed by 6 a.m. on days the county is open.
• Warrington Township has declared a State of Emergency and a Snow Emergency beginning at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24. Vehicles should be removed rom township roads to allow for snow clearing opeerations. Residents should also relocate basketball nets, trash cans and other items from the curb line. Non-essential travel should be avoided once the snowfall begins. Motorists should allow for extra time for necessary travel and expect hazardous conditions. Due to a regional shortage of salt, there may be an impact on road conditions in some areas, particularly during periods of heavy snow. To read more storm guidance from the township, click here.
• Hilltown Township has declared a snow emergency. The snow emergency begins on January 24 at 12 p.m. and ends on January 26 at 7 p.m. Please refer to snow emergency ordinance No. 2016-004 for specific.

Community Notices And Cancellations

• Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle in Doylestown will be closed on Sunday, January 25 and Monday, January 26 due to the snow storm. If you have tickets booked, contact the museum's directly via phone or email and staff will assist with rescheduling your visit. To stay up to date on hours and closing always, you can click here.
• The Plumstead Township Administration and Police Building will be closed on Monday, Jan. 26 due to the predicted snow. "Please plan accordingly and stay safe during the inclement weather." For any emergencies, call 911 or the non-emergency number - 215-766-8740.

Central Bucks School District Plans

• If weather conditions require school buildings to close, the first closure would be a traditional “snow day.” Since the district has not used a snow day this year, Monday, Jan. 26, would be a snow day if schools need to close. Any closures after the first snow day would be Flexible Instructional
  Days (FIDs), according to the district. Full details about how FIDs work at the elementary and secondary levels are available on the district's website by clicking here. For the latest guidance on snow closure plans, click here.

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.

Travel Safety

• Avoid non-essential travel once snowfall begins. Allow extra time for necessary travel and expect hazardous conditions. Ensure vehicles are fueled and cleared of all snow and ice before driving.

Home and Property Safety

• Clear sidewalks, driveways, and fire hydrants as required by ordinance. Use caution when shoveling to prevent injury. Keep heating systems, exhaust vents, and flues clear of snow and ice.

Power and Utilities

• Prepare for possible power outages. Keep flashlights, batteries, and charging devices available. Never operate grills or generators indoors.

Emergency Access and Community Awareness

• Keep driveways and access points clear for emergency vehicles. Monitor official municipal communications for updates. Check on elderly neighbors or residents with mobility challenges

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.