Philadelphia is beginning to return to its usual rhythm following the winter storm that hit the city on Sunday, February 22, leaving significant snow accumulation that led to the cancellation of classes and work across various sectors.
Schools and workplaces are returning to normal, although residents are still dealing with the effects of Sunday’s snowfall.
Although many streets have already been cleared and services are being restored, the impact is still being felt, especially in neighborhoods such as Hunting Park, Fairhill, Juniata, and other communities in the northern part of the city, where low temperatures continue to delay recovery efforts.
The SEPTA public transportation system is operating Metro service with delays or modifications, while Bus and Regional Rail service is being restored line by line. Riders are asked to check service updates in the Alerts section of SEPTA’s website so that workers and students can resume their routines. “Today my son returned to school after the cancellations and virtual classes, although he wanted to stay and keep playing in the snow,” said María R., a mother and Hunting Park resident, laughing. “But it’s time to return to reality.”
However, for many families, the situation was more than just a pause from school. Some residents had to go out into the cold to meet urgent needs, such as obtaining medication for elderly relatives. “My mom is diabetic and we needed her medicine. We couldn’t wait,” said a local resident who walked several blocks in search of an open pharmacy. “The streets were difficult, but when it comes to health, you do whatever it takes.”
The storm also put older adults to the test, many of whom rely on family members, neighbors, or community services for food and medication. “My grandmother lives alone and these days have been complicated. We’ve been taking turns bringing her hot meals and making sure she has heat,” shared Ana, a resident.
Community organizations have also played a key role in the response following the storm. One example is the Norris Square Senior Center, which provides assistance to older adults with food, guidance, and follow-up to ensure their well-being during days of extreme cold. We spoke with its manager, Wanda Mercado, who explained that the center had to remain closed for two days due to weather conditions. “We knew the snow was coming, but the amount of accumulation caught us by surprise,” Mercado noted. She explained that the temporary closure directly affected the essential services the center provides, especially the meal program for seniors who depend on those meals daily. “Closing for two days has an impact, because many of our participants count on us for their hot meal and daily support,” she added. Despite the interruption, staff stayed in contact with several members to ensure they were safe and cared for, resuming services as soon as conditions allowed.
Although in the suburbs some streets were cleared more quickly, residents in urban areas noted that the process was slower on secondary streets. Even so, cleanup efforts have not stopped and continue to move forward. Trash and recycling collection, which was suspended on Monday, February 23 and Tuesday, February 24 due to weather conditions, is expected to be completed by the end of the week.
Authorities reported that the Snow Emergency has been lifted. However, the Code Blue remains in effect through Wednesday, February 25 to protect people experiencing homelessness amid low temperatures. Residents can contact Philly311 to report hazardous road conditions or request cleaning and salt services.
The reality in communities like Hunting Park is that intense cold makes everything move more slowly. However, it has not stopped cleanup efforts or the determination of its residents.
As the city finishes fully clearing the roads and services stabilize, the resilience of a community that continues to support one another—even under snow and ice—becomes evident.