First Major Winter Storm of 2025 Hits Philadelphia Region

The first major winter storm of 2025 swept through South Jersey, Philadelphia, Delaware, and the Pennsylvania suburbs on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, bringing heavy snowfall and prompting widespread closures. Snow began falling early Monday morning in southern Delaware and New Jersey, with accumulations expected to reach 3 to 6 inches in the Philadelphia region by late evening.

The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning effective from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday, cautioning residents about hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages. In response, the School District of Philadelphia announced the closure of all schools and offices, including early childhood centers and after-school activities. Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. emphasized the district’s commitment to safety while acknowledging the joy snow days bring to students.

Philadelphia public schools were among the many institutions that closed ahead of the storm. The district had allocated an extra day in the school calendar for such emergencies, ensuring compliance with Pennsylvania’s 180-day requirement. Future weather-related closures will transition to remote learning days, according to district officials.

Local governments across the region declared snow emergencies, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel. The storm’s impact extended beyond education, with businesses and public services adjusting operations to accommodate the weather. Emergency crews were on standby to address potential issues, including road blockages and power disruptions.

Residents shared photos and videos of the snowfall on social media, capturing the storm’s intensity. The National Weather Service advised caution, particularly during the evening commute, as temperatures were expected to drop, potentially causing icy conditions. Forecasters predicted the storm would taper off by late Monday night, with normal operations resuming on Tuesday, Jan. 7.