Accidents, Power Outages, 60-mph Winds, Worst Cold Since 2004 Slam Pennsylvania

By Patricia A. Miller (Patch Staff)

The impact of Winter Storm Neptune has hit Pennsylvania. And even after the snow fell, it could get worse.

The state continues to be hit with 60-mph gusts that could lead to power outages and property damage, according to the National Weather Service.

Between 1 to 4 inches of snow fell in the Philadelphia area, Bucks County and the Lehigh Valley, with the highest being 4 inches in Lower Makefield in Bucks, according to the NWS.

Temperatures on Sunday could fall to their lowest levels since 2004, sinking to zero across the state and 10-below wind chills.

In Philadelphia, nearly 1,700 people were without power as of Sunday morning.

Nearly 300 people in Bucks County, specifically Doylestown and Northampton townships, were without power Sunday morning. In Montgomery County, 142 people were without power.

A “Winter Weather Advisory” is in effect until 1 p.m. Sunday, with periods of snow lasting until the late morning. Hazardous travel conditions are expected.

A “High Wind Warning” will be in effect until 2 pm. Sunday, with wind gusts expected to be as fast as 60 mph. A “Wind Chill Advisory” is in effect from 4 p.m. Sunday until 11 a.m. Monday.

A number of accidents, traffic delays, downed wires have made a mess of things for Pennsylvania residents. Click here for more detail.

Also, 25-mph speed restrictions on the Walt Whitman Bridge, the Betsy Ross Bridge, the Ben Franklin Bridge and the Commodore Barry Bridge between New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

“A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow will cause travel difficulties,” the National Weather Service said. ”Be prepared for slippery roads... limited visibilities... and blowing snow. Use caution while driving.”

A Wind Chill Advisory means that very cold air and strong winds will combine to generate low wind chills, resulting in possible frost bite and lead to hypothermia if precautions are not taken, according to the National Weather Service.

What else should we expect:

• Be prepared for power outages possibly lasting for more than 24 hours. trees and tree limbs could be knocked down.
• Minor structural damage to homes is possible.
• Do not park vehicles where trees can fall on them.
• Make sure all cell phone and electronic devices are fully charged.
• If you have a generator, make sure it is working properly and is properly ventilated when in use.
• Expect bridge restrictions and impacts to high-profile vehicles.

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