Streets Department Winter Weather Advisory

Citizens Urged to Salt Sidewalks Early and Use Caution While Driving

PHILADELPHIA – In response to today’s forecast of a light snowfall for Tuesday, November 27, Streets Department crews have prepared salt trucks for deployment early Tuesday morning to treat roads. A mixture of a snow and rain is expected. 

Though the storm is expected to start and end as rain, the morning rush hour could see some slick roads where the snow manages to come down quicker and thicker. Streets Department crews will concentrate on clearing primary roads, bridges and areas of high elevation where slippery spots develop, and will be monitoring for snow and icy conditions.

Citizens are urged to use caution. “Be mindful of black ice on the roadways which can be deceiving to the eye and appear as just moisture,” said Streets Commissioner Clarena Tolson. “Even after the snow mixture ends the roads could still have black ice on them.” Citizens are also reminded to apply commercial de-icers early to sidewalks. Salt should be applied as soon as a light accumulation has developed on the surface. It breaks the bond between subsequent accumulations and the pavement surface, thereby making it easier to shovel. Removal of snow and ice from sidewalks early also allows for safe traveling of pedestrians including school children, preventing them from having to walk in the street. Snow and ice can bond quickly to untreated pavements when the temperatures are at low levels.

For successful snow and ice management, citizens are urged to use the following tips:

• Allow extra time while driving and maintain safe driving distances 
• Use caution when navigating over bridges and overpasses where slippery spots may develop
• Avoid sudden stops and starts
• Remove ice and snow from windows, mirrors and all vehicle lights 
• Use low beams during heavy or blowing snow
• Stay tuned to local media for further updates for weather and traffic reports.

To learn more about snow and ice management, visit http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/transportation-highways-snow-intro.aspx. 

Citizens may also contact the Streets Department’s Customer Affairs Unit at 215-686-5560 about any Streets Department program or service. For all City services, please contact 311.

Learn how to prepare for the winter by visiting the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management's Winter Preparedness page.