SEPTA, Roads and Schools: What to Know Ahead of Winter Storm Toby
Here's the latest on what could be one of the 10 worst storm events in Philadelphia's history.
Thinking about why March is so cruel. Photo: Visit Philly.
Winter might technically be over, but spring has not sprung, and the snowstorm headed our way will bury any buds that thought they were going to get an early start to the season.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service say the impending Winter Storm Toby could be one of the 10 worst storm events in Philadelphia’s history. The nor’easter is expected to bring between 7 to 13 inches of snow on Wednesday, as well as ice accumulations and wind gusts of 25 to 40 mph.
The NWS warns that travel will be very difficult to impossible on Wednesday. Power outages and tree damage are expected.
Here’s what you need to know about public transportation, school closures and more ahead of the snowstorm.
Public Transportation
SEPTA’s Regional Rail Severe Storm schedule will be in effect on Wednesday. Trains will operate on a Saturday schedule, with enhanced Wilmington/Newark Line service. The Cynwyd Line will not operate. Midday busing on the Lansdale/Doylestown Line has been cancelled.
BSL: Due to a severe winter storm expected in our region tomorrow, trains will operate all night on Wednesday, March 21 for passenger convenience. NiteOwl bus service will not operate. Details are at https://t.co/sVMzhaOuMB
— SEPTA (@SEPTA) March 20, 2018
The following bus routes will be placed on weather related detours on Wednesday, starting at 8 a.m. (or earlier depending on weather conditions): Routes 7, 9, 14, 15B, 18, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 28, 31, 32, 35, 38, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 53, 55, 57, 58, 61, 62, 65,70, 73, 77, 84, 88, 92, 93, 94, 95, 97, 99, 103, 107, 108, 112, 114, 117, 119, 120, 124, 125, 126, G, H, XH, J, K, and L.
Broad Street and Market Frankford Line trains will operate with all-night service on Wednesday evening. Trains are expected to stop every 20 minutes.
Norristown High Speed Line trains will attempt to operate every 20 minutes, but customers should expect delays and possible service cancellations due to the storm.
Service on buses, trains, trolleys and CCT may be adjusted or suspended based on weather conditions on Wednesday. Passengers should check the status of their train via TrainView or Twitter. For updates on all other services, visit System Status online. For more information, visit SEPTA’s website.
Schools
The School District of Philadelphia has canceled all classes and after-school activities on Wednesday. All Catholic schools will also be closed. 6ABC has a list of other school closings.
PHL Airport
More than 240 flights scheduled to arrive at or depart from Philadelphia International Airport on Tuesday have already been canceled, according to NBC10. Be sure to check your flight status before leaving home on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Roads
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will impose restrictions on most interstates beginning at 8 p.m. on Tuesday. On the Pennsylvania Turnpike and interstates 76 and 95, that includes a ban on empty straight CDL-weighted trucks, tractors hauling double trailers, tractors hauling empty trailers, trailers pulled by passenger vehicles or pick-up trucks, motorcycles and recreational vehicles, or RVs.
For more information, visit PennDOT’s website.
Winter may be over, but ‘Sprinter’ has arrived! Be prepared for the spring snow storm by checking https://t.co/xBnMAKHyVI for the latest road conditions and updates. #WinterStormWarning pic.twitter.com/rIvX4elcSD
— PA Department of Transportation (@PennDOTNews) March 20, 2018
City Services
All Philly courts will be closed on Wednesday.
