Ice delays school openings, disrupts morning commute

Pedestrians walking at Philadelphia City Hall as a wintry mix coated the area in freezing rain Monday night.

The latest winter storm has left the Philadelphia region caked in ice, prompting officials to delay openings at hundreds scores of school and making walking and driving dangerous. The temperature is not expected to get above freezing in the city until after 8 a.m.

Here’s the latest of what you need to know.

Schools 

Philadelphia public schools apparently are opening on time. Archdiocesan schools in the city are opening two hours late. Hundreds of schools outside the city also have delayed openings. A list can be found at 6ABC.

Highways

Major highways that have been treated are reported to be in good condition. Secondaries, side streets and sidewalks that have not been treated are icy. Speed limit reduced to 35 mph on Ben Franklin, Walt Whitman, Betsy Ross and Commodore Barry bridges. Fog is reducing visibility in South Jersey.

The National Weather Service issued the following special statement: “Hazardous conditions for walking and driving due to some icy roads and walkways will continue through the morning commute. Temperatures early this morning are below freezing for much of the area, and ground temperatures remain rather cold. Therefore, any ice accumulation from Monday will not melt on untreated surfaces. Water on some treated roads and walkways may refreeze, especially on bridges and overpasses.”

Mass Transit

No major problems reported yet. But ice on rails Monday night slowed trains. SEPTA advised passengers to be careful on platforms, parking lots and walkways.

Camera icon TABLET Infographics
How to walk on ice.

Philadelphia International Airport

The airport reports some cancellations and delays. Be sure to check with your airline before leaving to catch a flight. Flight information can be found at phl.org

 

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