Philly, it’s time to hunker down! Friday morning during a scheduled press conference, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced a snow emergency would go into effect Saturday, January 24th, 2026 beginning 9 p.m. throughout the entire city ahead of Sunday’s massive snowstorm.
What is a Snow Emergency? 🚨
A snow emergency is declared for all city residents and organizations ahead of significant snowfall that is expected to be extremely dangerous for pedestrians or vehicles.
During a snow emergency, residents are strongly advised not to drive unless it is absolutely necessary.
Any vehicles parked along a snow emergency route must be moved beforehand.
According to Mayor Parker, this goes into effect Saturday, January 24th, 2026 beginning at 9 p.m. and will remain in effect until roadway conditions improve.
Philadelphia parking garages will be offering $5 24-hour parking during this time beginning Saturday night.
What is a snow emergency route? ❄️
In Philly, there are 110 miles of snow emergency routes in Philadelphia.
These routes must be clear when there’s a winter storm, so that snow plows can pass through.
Such routes are marked with large red signs reading “Snow Emergency Route” in white letters.
What happens if I don’t move my vehicle in time? 🚗
Parking along a snow emergency route is strictly prohibited. Cars not moved in time will be towed to another parking lot to clear the route.
Important to note, if your car is towed:
- Call (215) 686-SNOW (7669) and press option four.
- Do not call 911.
- Provide information to identify your vehicle.
How much snow is Philly getting? ❄️
Philadelphia is bracing for its first significant snowstorm in almost a decade with forecasters predicting approximately 8 to 13 inches total snowfall in the region.
Additionally, an Arctic blast will also bring with it frigid temperatures and dangerously low wind chills.
Warming Centers throughout Philadelphia ♨
While Philadelphia is under an Enhanced Code Blue due to extreme temperatures and below-zero wind chills, select Parks & Recreations locations will serve as warming centers.
Those locations are:
- M.L. King Recreation Center (2101 Cecil B Moore Ave, 19121).
- DiSilvestro Playground (1701 S. 15th Street, 19145).
- Scanlon Playground (1099 E. Tioga Street, 19134).
It’s strongly encouraged residents in-need take advantage of these warming centers, where they can access a heated place, water, snacks, and warm blankets.
Lastly, each warming center is open from 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. daily.