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

YARDLEY AREA, PA — Residents of Yardley, Morrisville, and Lower Makefield Township are bracing for a winter storm this weekend that could bring heavy snow accumulations to the township and 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

Yardley Borough has declared a snow emergency from 8 p.m. Saturday through Noon on Monday. No parking will be allowed on borough streets during the emergency.

Mayor Caroline Thompson said borough officials are preparing the Recreation Room (next door to Yardley Borough Police Department) as a shelter should power outages occur. She said that updates will be provided throughout the storm.

"We have standard operating procedures for weather events in Yardley Borough," Thompson told Patch, adding that they will be managed by the police chief and Emergency Management Coordinator Wes Foraker. "As always, residents are encouraged to stay home whenever possible to allow plows and salt trucks to clear and treat roadways and allow emergency vehicles to be dedicated to any life-threatening events versus traffic incidents.

The mayor also asks residents to keep walkways, fire hydrants, and mailboxes clear..

As of Friday morning, no snow emergencies have been declared in Morrisville Borough and Lower Makefield Township.

Reported Closures

• No closures have been reported at this time.

School District Plans

The Pennsbury School District is issuing a Remote Learning Advisory for Monday as a precaution.

Schools Superintendent Thomas A. Smith said the goal is to hold in-person classes if possible; this includes the possibility of a delayed opening.

In preparation for the possibility of Remote Learning, the following should occur on Friday:

• All students bring home their Chromebooks and chargers at the end of the school day.
• Students should have the necessary materials, including textbooks, notebooks, and other resources, to complete assignments and participate in remote classes.
• Students have been instructed to test their access to online platforms such as Schoology, PowerSchool, and Google Meets to confirm their login information is working properly.
• If you or your child have tech issues contact: familytechhelp@pennsburysd.org.

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