Philadelphia Braces for Bitter Cold with Delays

A winter scene in Philadelphia with snow-covered streets.

Philadelphia, December 15, 2025

Philadelphia faces significant delays for courts, city offices, and public schools following a winter storm that left the region with snow and frigid temperatures. The delay aims to ensure public safety amid hazardous weather conditions. The Philadelphia Courts and city offices will open late, while all schools in the district will also start two hours later to facilitate safer travel amidst icy sidewalks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about specific department operations as clean-up efforts continue.

Philadelphia Braces for Bitter Cold with Court and School Delays on December 15, 2025

Philadelphia, PA – Philadelphia is experiencing significant delays for courts, city offices, and public schools today, Monday, December 15, 2025, following a weekend winter storm that brought snow and bitter cold temperatures to the region. The decision to delay openings was made to ensure public safety amid icy conditions and dangerously low wind chills.

Operational Adjustments Across the City

Both the Philadelphia Courts (First Judicial District of Pennsylvania) and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are operating on a two-hour delay. This affects all courthouses and clerks’ offices within the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, including those in Philadelphia, Allentown, Reading, and Easton. Counsel with cases scheduled to begin before 10:30 a.m. are advised to contact their Judge’s Courtroom Deputy for further information.

City offices in Philadelphia are also observing a delayed opening, with operations commencing at 10 a.m. due to the inclement weather. Residents are encouraged to contact their specific department for precise hours of operation. Trash and recycling collections, however, are proceeding on their regular schedule.

Impact on Education

All schools within the School District of Philadelphia are opening two hours late today. This delay encompasses all School District of Philadelphia schools, Early Childhood Centers, the Dr. Constance E. Clayton Education Center, archdiocesan high schools, and Catholic elementary schools in the city. This measure was taken to facilitate safer travel for students and staff as cleanup efforts continue and temperatures remain very low. Students arriving late due to weather-related challenges will not be marked tardy if a note from a parent or guardian is provided, and students who remain home will be excused. All outdoor school activities have been moved indoors for the day.

Current Weather Conditions and Outlook

The Philadelphia region experienced several inches of snow over the weekend. While the snow has moved out, temperatures are expected to remain frigid, with highs only reaching 30 degrees and “feels-like” temperatures in the teens and low 20s throughout the day. Dangerous wind chills and pervasive black ice continue to be primary concerns, leading to treacherous travel conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is causing the delays in Philadelphia today, December 15, 2025?
The delays are due to recent snow and bitter cold temperatures following a weekend winter storm in the region.
Which Philadelphia courts are affected by the delays?
Both the Philadelphia Courts (First Judicial District of Pennsylvania) and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are operating on a two-hour delay.
Are Philadelphia city offices also delayed?
Yes, city offices in Philadelphia are opening at 10 a.m. today, December 15, 2025, due to inclement weather.
Are Philadelphia public schools delayed or closed today?
Philadelphia public schools, including all School District of Philadelphia schools, Early Childhood Centers, archdiocesan high schools, and Catholic elementary schools, are operating on a two-hour delay.
What are the current weather concerns in Philadelphia?
Current concerns include freezing cold temperatures, dangerous wind chills, and pervasive black ice, leading to treacherous travel conditions.

Key Features of December 15, 2025, Delays in Philadelphia

Affected Entity Delay Information Reason for Delay
Philadelphia Courts (First Judicial District of Pennsylvania) Two-hour delay Inclement weather
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Two-hour delay for all Courthouses and Clerks Offices Inclement weather
City of Philadelphia Offices Opening at 10 a.m. Inclement weather
School District of Philadelphia Schools Two-hour delay Weekend snow and bitter cold temperatures, icy sidewalks
Trash & Recycling Services (City of Philadelphia) On schedule (Not delayed)

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STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER

The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.

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