Shoppers pack grocery stores in the Philadelphia region ahead of impending winter storm

CHERRY HILL, N.J. (WPVI) -- Shoppers crowded grocery stores across the Philadelphia area Thursday, racing to stock up on essentials ahead of an approaching winter storm.

At Wegmans in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, long checkout lines and packed aisles reflected what many customers described as a last-minute rush to prepare.

"I have my list, just like Santa - check it twice and keep moving," said Gerard Dugan of Tabernacle, New Jersey.

In their efforts to beat the storm, many shoppers didn't bear the heavy crowds.

"It was very hectic, lots and lots of lines, lots of people, craziness, carts banging," Dugan said.

Grocery store parking lots resembled a holiday rush as shoppers loaded up on groceries.

"Chaos. Chaos. Be ready to dodge the carts if you're coming out," said Liz Graziano of Philadelphia.

Live Updates: Major winter storm eyes up Philadelphia region; first look at snow totals

Kathy Stevenson of Haddon Township said she was surprised by how busy stores were.

"Phew, it is packed. I usually come on Thursdays and it's not this packed," Stevenson said.

Many shoppers said they planned to stay home once the storm arrived.

"Stay in, nice and warm. Watch the TV. Watch football," said Joann Kondriski of Collingswood, New Jersey.

Others shared similar plans.

"In bed watching my soap operas," said Barbara Katz of Cherry Hill.

Parents said they were especially focused on making sure they had enough supplies.

"I am very worried. I'm stocked up, I've got my deep freezer ready to go, I have two little kids, so we have to have all the essentials on hand," Graziano said.

RELATED: Get the latest on the approaching winter storm at 6abc.com/Weather

At Rastelli Market Fresh in Marlton, store management said the surge in shoppers rivaled major holidays.

Chris Mentzer, director of operations, said business had jumped significantly as the storm approached.

"We saw about a 25% increase yesterday, will probably see about a 60 to 70% increase today. It'll increase Friday and Saturday - it's gonna be like Christmas time here," Mentzer said.

He added that shelves are being restocked nightly to keep up with demand. One item, however, has already sold out.

Ice melt ran out Thursday, though store officials said a new shipment is expected to arrive later in the evening.