Philadelphia officials are urging residents to prepare for an extended stretch of dangerous cold expected to last through this week.
The National Weather Service forecasts below-freezing temperatures for at least another week, with wind chills dipping into the single digits at night. While daytime highs may reach the 30s by Tuesday, overnight temperatures could fall below zero.
City departments and partner agencies remain on around-the-clock operations, including snow and ice removal, as prolonged cold continues to strain aging infrastructure, water systems and housing, officials said.
“We are now seeing the lasting effects of the extreme cold temperatures on our people, our city’s aging infrastructure, on the homes and buildings throughout the city, and even on the rivers,” Managing Director Adam K. Thiel said, emphasizing that preparation and awareness can be lifesaving.
The Office of Homeless Services remains under an Enhanced Code Blue, keeping warming centers open citywide and ensuring no one is turned away. Shelters and temporary warming sites at recreation centers and libraries are available to anyone in need, including residents experiencing heat or water outages.
A current list of warming centers is available at phila.gov/GetWarm, and outreach teams can be contacted at 215-232-1984.
Health officials are also warning residents to watch for signs of hypothermia, including shivering, confusion and slurred speech, and to check on elderly, ill or disabled neighbors.
“Anyone experiencing these signs or see people who are showing signs, should move indoors immediately,” said Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson, Commissioner of the Department of Public Health. “Call 911 right away if it is deemed a medical emergency. We cannot stress enough how important it is as a resident to please check on your neighbors who are elderly, ill or disabled to make sure they are safe and well in these prolonged freezing conditions.”
The extreme cold has increased the likelihood of frozen pipes and water main breaks, which occur most frequently during winter months. Residents who experience water loss or see street leaks should contact the Philadelphia Water Department’s emergency line at 215-685-6300.
If customers lose water service or have reduced flow, it is important to act quickly and check for frozen pipes on the property, officials noted. Officials recommend insulating pipes, keeping meters above 40 degrees and allowing faucets to drip during prolonged freezes.
City officials said drinking water treatment plants remain fully operational as crews continue enhanced cold-weather monitoring.
Officials added that increased use of space heaters is common, but raises fire risks, and residents are urged to follow Philadelphia Fire Code guidelines.
Philadelphians can stay connected to important information by texting READYPHILA to 888777 or customizing email or text alerts by visiting phila.gov/ready. Information is available in multiple languages.
“Prolonged exposure to these temperatures can quickly become dangerous – even deadly," said Managing Director Adam K. Thiel, "so we are stressing that preparation and awareness are the most effective ways to stay safe.”
