Philadelphia and the surrounding areas are bracing themselves for the possibility of the first significant snowfall in nearly two years. While the exact snow totals are still uncertain, residents are being encouraged to prepare for the winter storm that is expected to hit this weekend.

The storm system, currently looming over the West Coast, is predicted to move across the southern United States before potentially developing into a nor'easter as it approaches the Delaware and New Jersey coasts. The path of the storm remains uncertain as it continues its journey towards the Philadelphia region, but experts anticipate it will start impacting the area by midday on Saturday.

Precipitation will initially begin as snowfall in most areas, but as the storm gains strength, a rain/snow line is likely to establish along the I-95 corridor, determining the type of precipitation each region will experience. While the Jersey Shore, South Jersey, and Delaware are expected to primarily see rain, the northern and western Pennsylvania suburbs, Lehigh Valley, and Poconos have the greatest likelihood of several inches of snowfall.

Temperatures will vary across the region, hovering around or just above freezing in the northern and western suburbs, while reaching the 40s along the coast and in Delaware. The storm is expected to intensify on Saturday evening, with a mix of snow and rain continuing overnight into Sunday. Lingering showers may persist throughout Sunday before the storm clears out by Sunday night.

The storm's trajectory will be closely monitored over the next 24 to 48 hours as it will play a crucial role in determining the extent of its impact on different neighborhoods. Road crews are already preparing for the winter weather, as they gear up to keep roadways safe and clear.

This snowstorm could mark an end to Philadelphia's longest snowless streak on record, as the city has not seen measurable snow since February 1, 2023, when a mere 0.3 inches fell. It has been over 700 days since Philadelphia experienced more than an inch of snow, with the last substantial snowfall occurring on January 29, 2022, when 5.8 inches blanketed the city.

As the region anticipates the arrival of the winter storm, residents are advised to take necessary precautions. It is recommended to have essential devices, such as phones, charged, and to download the latest version of the NBC10 app for updated forecasts, snow projections, and live interactive radar. Additionally, preparing snow shovels, ice melt, ice scrapers, clearing gutters, and even finding sleds in the basement are all part of the checklist to ensure readiness for whatever this storm may bring.

As the Philadelphia region awaits its first significant snowfall in years, it is important to stay informed and prepared in the face of uncertain weather conditions. Keep following local news outlets and weather updates to stay ahead of the storm and make necessary arrangements to stay safe and comfortable during this winter event.