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

NEWTOWN. PA — Residents in the Newtown area are bracing for a winter storm on Sunday that could bring 8 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 and sleet.

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. on Saturday 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

• Wrightstown Township has declared a snow emergency beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, and continuing through 6 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27. Remove all vehicles from the roadway for the duration of the snow emergency - no parking on any roadways in the township. - no exceptions. Any vehicle left on the roadway will be towed. Vehicles should be parked in their driveways or garages. The township is urging residents to stay home if they do not need to be out during the duration of the storm.
• Newtown Borough has declared a snow emergency beginning at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24 and continuing through noon on Monday, Jan. 26. All vehicles parked along the borough's snow emergency routes must be moved to allow for snow clearing operations. Property owners are reminded that sidewalks must be cleared within eight hours or by noon the day after if the end of the snowfall occurs after 6 p.m.
• Newtown Township has declared a snow emergency from 12 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 25 to 12 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27. During the emergency, parking is banned on streets in the township to facilitate plowing operations. "Please do not park your vehicles on roads so that the Newtown Township Department of Public Works can safel and efficiently clear the snow," said township officials.

Community Notices And Cancellations

• The Newtown Athletic Club will be open during the storm offering people a place to warm up, recharge and stay connected. “As our community anticipates the incoming snow, we want you to know we’re here for you,” said the NAC. “If you find yourself without power, or just need a place to warm up, a place to recharge (yourself and your electronics), WiFi to stay connected, or a comfortable space to work, you are welcome here, whether you are a NAC member or not.”
• The administrative offices at the Washington Crossing National Cemetery will be closed on Monday, Jan. 26, and no burials o services will be held. The office will open on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 8 a.m.
• McCaffrey's Market in the Village at Newtown will be closed on Sunday, Jan. 25 due to the storm.

Council Rock School District Plans

• If substantial snowfall requires a school closure on Monday, January 26, it will be an asynchronous flexible instructional day, according to the Council Rock School District. “Look for more information from Council Rock on school closures or schedule changes at www.crsd.org or in your school's weekly newsletter.”

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.