Bitter cold, howling winds hit Delaware Valley ahead of winter storm

NORRISTOWN, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- The howling wind and bone-chilling cold are tearing through the Delaware Valley. But many people bundled up as they braved the temperatures on Friday.

"It just goes right through me," said Linda McCarthy of Newtown Square. "It's just so bitter. It invades everything."

With wind chills pushing temperatures into the teens and a nor'easter brewing, the tri-state area is in for a snowstorm beginning Sunday night.



"I'm just going to hunker down and wait it out," said Morris Mosley, of Ardmore.

Due to extremely cold conditions, the City is implementing special measures to keep people who are homeless safe. If you see someone who needs shelter, call (215) 232-1984.

And if those who are homeless refused to come indoors, Alvin Frazier with Philadelphia Homeless Outreach, says extra blankets are provided.

"We try to reach out and just give them some kind of sense of comfort," said Frazier.

The cold snap has also brought the city's already struggling outdoor dining venues to a screeching halt.

"Getting through January and February is going to be tough for most places. A lot of places couldn't even do the amount of outdoor seating we did and it's still a struggle for us too," said Jeffery Hyman, the general Manager of Wine Dive.

Their elaborate outdoor space was all but empty except for two friends Friday night.

"Trying to get local businesses stuff so we can still have them when we're done with COVID," said John Connolly who braved the temps.



The AccuWeather team says the cold air could help fuel some significant snowfall in the coming days.

First-grader Joe Dougherty, of Broomall, said he loves snow days because he can play outside.

"Building a snowman and snowball fights," said Daughtery.

AAA Mid-Atlantic spokesperson Jana Tidwell said the cold temperatures compounded with the snow means drivers have to keep a close eye on their car battery.

"Extreme cold, temperatures that drop below freezing compromise your car battery," said Tidwell. "It takes more power, more strength to start your car when it's cold outside."

Tidwell recommended packing a car kit with kitty litter or salt, an ice scraper and de-icer windshield fluid. She said having a shovel and some snacks can help drivers get out of a compromising position.

PennDOT District 6 Digital Community Relations Coordinator Chelsea Lacey-Mabe said state trucks are on a full call out, meaning all 160 vehicles will treat and clear roads with additional contractors on standby.

"Many of the counties will be pre-treating today. They'll be doing the secondary roads and then they'll be brining majors tomorrow," said Lacey-Mabe.