Lower Providence, Collegeville Prepare For Major Winter Storm: Latest Forecast, Cancellations

LOWER PROVIDENCE, PA — Officials in the Lower Providence area are preparing for what could be the most impactful snowstorm in the region in years.

Forecasters expect anywhere from 12 to 18 inches of snow from late Saturday night through Monday morning, which would place the storm among the most severe in recent history.

Related: PA Snow Totals Up In Latest Weekend Storm Forecast

Lower Providence has already declared a snow emergency from noon on Saturday, Jan. 24 through noon on Friday, Jan. 30.

During a snow emergency in the township, parking is prohibited on the odd numbered side of every street, unless there is no off-street parking available within 300 feet of the residence.

All vehicles within the township must have either chains or all weather tires if driving.

Across Montgomery County, emergency services are preparing plows and salt trucks to work on the roads once the storm begins.

If residents wish to report concerns will plowing on state roadways, contact PennDOT at 1-800-349-7623. State routes include Audubon Rd., Pawlings Road, Eagleville Road, Ridge Pike, Egypt Road, River Road, Evansburg Road, Trooper Road, Level Road (between Ridge Pike and Yerkes Rd) Park Avenue, Yerkes Road, and Route 422.

For concerns on Germantown Pike, residents should contact Montgomery County at 610-275-2368.

Collegeville Bakery, meanwhile, is offering a series of special "snow DIY" kits to help residents make donuts, cakes, pizzas, and more at home.

Snow is expected to be significant enough that travel is not recommended unless absolutely necessary. Montgomery County has a vast network of roadways that will take some time to clear, even once the storm ceases.

"Stay off the roads until they're plowed if you can," State Sen. Maria Collett said.

Collett's office also advised the public to stock up on certain supplies, like bottled water, nonperishable food, can openers, blankets, pet foods, and medications.

Power outages are possible. Have a plan for what you plan to eat and how to stay warm if you lose electricity.

If you do experience an outage, don't call 911, but report the outage to PECO.

Individuals in need of shelter can call 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211.

All residents are advised to sign up for "ReadyMontco" alerts, if they have not done so already.

"Emergencies and severe weather can happen with little to no warning," the borough of Collegeville shared, urging residents to sign up for alerts. "Causing power outages, evacuations, or disruptions to everyday life. When every minute counts, staying informed is critical."

Local municipalities are expected to declare snow emergencies, as they do any time more than a few inches of snow are predicted to fall. Emergencies will likely be declared in the hours before the storm arrives Saturday night. That means there will be restrictions where residents can park their vehicles, and they should be moved before the storm begins.

Police are are also warning residents not to reserve parking spaces using chairs, cones, or other items. It is illegal, and officers will cite residents.

It is also illegal to deposit snow from sidewalks into the street, officials added. Residents should check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbors.

Residents should shovel sidewalks in front of their property within 24 hours, and should endeavor to keep fire hydrants and mailboxes clear and accessible.

Another danger once the snow stops is ice, as temperatures will drop into the teens and roads and walkways could freeze. Residents are urged to exercise caution when they go out.

Snow could continue into Monday, forecasters said.