PHILADELPHIA — As heavy snow continues to fall across Pennsylvania from Center City Philadelphia to neighborhoods near Pittsburgh’s Point State Park, officials are urging residents to take key safety steps before heading to bed.
Forecasters warn that snowfall totals could climb overnight, increasing stress on rooftops, blocking ventilation systems and raising the likelihood of scattered power outages. Major roadways, including stretches of Interstate 76 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, have already seen deteriorating travel conditions, while residential streets across the Commonwealth are rapidly accumulating snow.
Emergency management officials say the overnight hours often bring the greatest risk, as temperatures dip and heating systems work continuously.
Authorities recommend residents complete a brief home safety check before turning in for the night.
Key safety steps Pennsylvania residents should take tonight:
- Clear exterior vents. Make sure furnace, water heater and dryer vents remain free of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Confirm batteries are working, especially with heating systems running at full capacity.
- Use space heaters carefully. Keep heaters at least three feet from bedding, curtains and furniture, and avoid leaving units on unattended unless designed for overnight use.
- Look for signs of roof stress. Heavy, wet snow can strain older structures in areas such as Philadelphia row homes and suburban properties outside Pittsburgh. Listen for unusual creaks and check for ceiling stains.
- Protect vulnerable pipes. Open cabinet doors beneath sinks along exterior walls to allow warm air to circulate.
- Check vehicle exhaust pipes. Clear snow from tailpipes before starting vehicles in the morning to avoid dangerous fumes.
- Charge essential electronics. Gusting winds overnight could lead to isolated outages in parts of eastern and western Pennsylvania.
Communities from the Liberty Bell area in Philadelphia to the North Shore district in Pittsburgh have reported steady snowfall, with plow crews working extended shifts. Officials caution, however, that neighborhood streets may not be cleared before daybreak.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance during extended periods of heavy snow.
While snowfall is expected to taper off tomorrow, authorities emphasize that the hours between midnight and early morning frequently present the highest risk for frozen pipes, heating-related incidents and structural strain.
Officials say a quick inspection tonight could help prevent more serious problems by morning across Pennsylvania.
