Thousands Without Power as Winter Storm Impacts South-Central Pennsylvania
Updated: 10:58 AM EST Feb 23, 2026
A winter storm has left thousands in Pennsylvania without power, particularly in south-central and eastern regions. While the nor’easter is tapering off in the Susquehanna Valley, stronger winds are expected to continue causing impacts on Monday.
Power Outages Reported Across Multiple Counties
Several south-central Pennsylvania counties are experiencing a high number of power outages, including Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, and York counties. Widespread outages are also reported in communities near Philadelphia in eastern Pennsylvania.
Storm Impact and Forecast
The storm, which began as a mix of rain and snow on Sunday, transitioned to mostly snow overnight. The south-central Pennsylvania region received approximately 2 to 5 inches of snow, with some areas reporting accumulations of 5 to 8 inches.
WGAL’s Storm Team has declared Monday an Impact Day due to northwest winds of 15–25 mph with gusts near 40 mph. These winds pose a threat of downing trees and branches, potentially leading to additional power outages.
Health and Safety Concerns
Doctors are cautioning residents about the health risks associated with shoveling heavy snow, noting that it can significantly increase heart rate and blood pressure. Dozens of people across the country die each year from shoveling-related heart issues, emphasizing the require for caution.
Closings and Delays
More than 400 closings and delays, along with snow emergencies, have been reported across the Susquehanna Valley. A comprehensive list of closures and delays is available on the WGAL website, WGAL.com.
WGAL Weather Resources
- Interactive Radar: Track the storm’s movement.
- Location-Based Weather Alerts: Receive alerts specific to your location.
- School Closings and Delays: Stay informed about school and business closures.
- Interactive Traffic Map: Check for crashes, construction, and road closures.
- Hourly Forecast: Plan your day with detailed hourly predictions.
- 10-Day Forecast: Gain an extended outlook for the week ahead.
York County Reporter
Morrissey Walsh, the York County Reporter for WGAL News 8, joined the team in June 2025. Walsh is a York College of Pennsylvania graduate, where she majored in Mass Communications and minored in American History, graduating summa cum laude. More about Morrissey Walsh.