Storm update: as many as 24 inches may hit parts of midstate

(Harrisburg) — Governor Tom Wolf has declared a state of emergency ahead of a snowstorm that’s expected to bring as much as two feet to parts of Pennsylvania.

Forecasters admit that this storm presents a big challenge because snowfall projections are so varied for small areas.

But State Meteorologist Jeff Jumper says make no mistake: the storm is coming.

As much as 24 inches could fall in parts of central Pennsylvania – with the highest totals predicted for Gettysburg and areas south of York and Lancaster.

South of Pittsburgh, Jumper says 8 to 12 inches is forecast, and in the Philadelphia area, 12 to 18 inches are expected.

Winds could also pose a problem – especially because Jumper says some of the snow will be light and easily blown around.

State officials recommend limiting travel and prepare emergency kits in case electricity goes out.

Kits should contain:

• non-perishable food
• bottled water (one gallon per person per day. A family of 4 needs a minimum of 12 gallons)
• medications
• flashlight with spare batteries
• first aid kit
• warm clothing; and
• any specialized items such as baby supplies or pet food.

From the city of Harrisburg:

Harrisburg City residents are being allowed to park free in the Locust Street Garage from 7 p.m. Friday  through 6 a.m. Monday in an effort to get cars off the streets to make way for Public Works crews, if they are needed.

In addition, the Public Works Department is informing residents that there will be no trash collection on Saturday.  Residents are asked to put out all trash on Friday, even if the collection day is Saturday.