PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The first major snowfall of the season dropped several inches of snow across the region Sunday morning, quickly worsening driving conditions.
Philadelphia saw over 3 inches of snow overnight, while the surrounding areas saw up to 9 inches, according to Accuweather. Center City measured about 3.6 inches, while Philadelphia International Airport reported 1.3 inches. Many locations initially saw rain, which eventually changed to snow, and lighter flurries lingered in parts of South Jersey through the morning.
Temperatures are expected to fall Sunday afternoon and evening, with wind gusts of 15–25 mph making it feel like the teens.
Authorities urged residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel as visibility remained low Sunday, even after sunrise, and snow-covered roads forced drivers to slow to a crawl. On I-76, PennDOT reduced the speed limit. Snowplows were deployed across the region and are expected to continue clearing major roads into Sunday evening.
Forecasters warn that melting snow could refreeze overnight on roads and sidewalks, creating additional hazards into Monday and Tuesday.
Despite the snowy and icy conditions, Eagles fans made their way to South Philadelphia to see the team face the Raiders, with parking lots around Lincoln Financial Field filling early as fans tailgated ahead of kickoff.
Liam Grubb, who traveled from Quakertown with his family, said the trip usually takes a little over an hour on Eagles Sundays.
“Today it was like 2 hours,” Grubb said. “Nothing plowed, snow all over the roads, people driving like idiots. It was a little rough of a drive.”
His brother Dan agreed, but he wasn’t letting the weather or journey dampen the day or game.
“It was fun. It was an adventure, and now we’re at the Linc enjoying some fellowship with our friends and family,” he said.
Like the Grubbs, Claire from Downingtown said her family also struggled with the snow.
“My dad shoveling our driveway, which is at a steep, steep angle, barely made it down the driveway, barely made it down the street,” she said.
“We’re here for the Birds, and we’re here to see a win against the Raiders today.”