But people in the area may have noticed that things went a little smoother with these last two big storms than they did back after the blizzard of 1996.
So what was different?
For starters, in '96, the system fell behind the snowfall and the snow built up on untreated roadways that became difficult to clear.
This time, PennDOT moved to get ahead of the snowfall, using techniques developed in the past decade.
"We're doing more anti-icing than we did in '96," said Nick Martino of PennDOT. "Big help. It helps melt the snow much faster."
Putting down a layer of brine and salt before the snowstorm helped create a layer of slush that could be plowed off quickly.
A network of highway cameras gave PennDOT a real-time look at conditions. So, should ice build up or a vehicle stall, help can be quickly dispatched.
Another difference: In 1996, the city had a tough time figuring out what to do with all of the snow. Officials took the remarkable step of having some 2,000 tons of snow dumped in the Schuylkill River. It was a controversial because of the road salt and other contaminants that also went into the water.
Now, Mayor Michael Nutter said such a move is off the table.
"It's environmentally damaging. It's certainly not something we're looking at doing," he said. He went on to say the city plans to leave the snow piles where they are and let the sun deal with them.
As for the next round of snow in the forecast, PennDOT says it's ready.
"It seems to be a wetter snow with high winds," Martino said. "It's going to be very important to stay on top of a storm like this."
With both PennDOT and the City of Philadelphia ready, all eyes are now on Mother Nature.
