Snow Emergency for Philly as Storm Moves Through

Philadelphia is now in a snow emergency as a major storm continues to move through the region.

The nor'easter, which moved in around 9 p.m., will batter the area for a full 24 hours -- not moving out until late Thursday night.

NBC10 First Alert Chief Meteorologist Glenn “Hurricane” Schwartz says the “worst of the storm” should happen early Thursday morning and believes parts of the area, including Philadelphia, could have at least eight inches of snow on the ground by 6 a.m.

Mayor Nutter declared a state of emergency in Philadelphia that took effect at 8 p.m. tonight. He also canceled Thursday and Friday trash collection and said the city plans to collect trash as regular on Monday despite the President's Day holiday. All offices will be closed on Thursday and only essential personnel will be asked to come in.

During a press conference at 5 p.m., Nutter advised Philly residents to stay off roadways during the storm unless it was absolutely necessary.

"When you wake up, there will more than likely be six to seven inches of snow already on the ground," Nutter said. "Heavy, wet snow is anticipated."

While SEPTA will be running, Nutter says bus routes may be impacted by the storm.

Within six hours of the end of the storm, residents must clear a path of at least 36 inches on their sidewalk, including curb cuts. To report a sidewalk that has not been cleared, call the Streets Department Customer Affairs Unit at 215-686-5560.

Nutter also warned residents not to throw snow back onto the streets.

"It's dangerous and disrespectful to the workers who will be out there for a long period of time," Nutter said.

Anyone who is caught throwing snow back onto the streets will face a $75 fine, according to Nutter.

During the snow emergency, all cars must not be parked on the snow emergency routes. View the full list of routes here.

Red Cross President, the Honorable Renee Cardwell Hughes also warned people to not heat their homes with gas ovens, kerosene heaters or similar devices.

"Last week, during the course of the ice storm, 55 people were overcome by carbon monixide poisoning," Hughes said.

CLICK HERE for safety tips on how to handle the extreme cold.

The city's 311 call center will open at 6 a.m. on Thursday. Nutter says all non-emergency calls, including reports of downed trees, should go to 311.

Philadelphia International Airport canceled over 70 flights on Wednesday. To find out if your flight is canceled, call 1-800-PHL-GATE or visit the Philly International website.

If you see a homeless person on the street during the torm, call the Project HOME emergency hotline number at 215-232-1984.

Governor Chris Christie declared a state of emergency for the entire state of New Jersey. All state offices will be closed on Thursday for all non-essential employees.

The following towns also declared snow emergencies. Click on each town for more information.

Montgomery County

Abington Township - 6 p.m. Wed - 10 a.m. Friday

Bryn Athyn Borough - 8 p.m. Wd - 10 a.m. Friday

Cheltenham Township - 8 p.m. Wed. until further notice

Conshohocken - 8 p.m. Wed - Thursday

East Norriton Township - 8 p.m. Wed - Noon Friday

Franconia Township - 6 p.m. Wed - Saturday

Horsham Township - 8 p.m. Wed. until further notice

Lower Frederick Township - 10 p.m. Wed - 9 a.m. Friday

Montgomery Township - 8 p.m. Wed. until further notice

North Wales Borough - 8 p.m. Wed - 8 p.m. Friday