Harrisburg residents will have access to free parking this weekend as the city prepares for a significant winter storm expected to bring heavy snowfall to central Pennsylvania.
The City of Harrisburg announced Thursday that it will offer free parking at two city garages beginning at 5 p.m. on Saturday (January 24). The free parking will be available at the Locust Street Garage and City Island Garage, giving residents a safe place to park their vehicles during the storm.
City officials are encouraging residents to take advantage of the free parking to keep streets clear, allowing snow removal crews to work safely and efficiently throughout the storm.
According to forecasts, the winter storm could bring substantial accumulation to the region. The U.S. National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch from 10 p.m. Saturday to 1 p.m. Monday, with Harrisburg potentially receiving six or more inches of snow.
Travel could become extremely difficult as snow accumulates at rates of 1-2 inches per hour through midday Sunday. The heaviest snowfall is expected Sunday morning and early afternoon, with conditions gradually improving later in the day.
Some areas south of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and southeast of Harrisburg may see snow transition to sleet by Sunday afternoon, potentially reducing total accumulations in those locations.
Several municipalities in the Susquehanna Valley have already declared snow emergencies in preparation for the storm.
Residents are advised to prepare for potential power outages by gathering essential supplies, including food, water, medications, and alternative power sources like portable chargers. Experts recommend limiting travel during the storm and having a plan in place for extended outages, particularly with the Arctic blast of frigid air expected to accompany the storm system.
Those who must venture outdoors should watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia, including numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and confusion or drowsiness.