Most Dangerous Roads In Philadelphia During Icy Weather

In Philadelphia, icy conditions can make certain streets particularly dangerous due to steep inclines, poor drainage, or high traffic. Here are some streets to be especially cautious of during icy weather:

Steep and Slippery Streets

1. Levering Street (Manayunk) – Extremely steep, difficult to navigate in ice or snow.
2. Green Lane (Manayunk) – Another steep hill leading into Manayunk that becomes treacherous.
3. Lyceum Avenue (Manayunk) – A notorious hill for sliding in bad weather.
4. Spring Garden Street Bridge – Bridges tend to ice over faster than roads.
5. Umbria Street (Manayunk/Roxborough) – A lower-lying road prone to slick conditions.
6. Henry Avenue (Roxborough/East Falls) – High speeds + ice can be a bad mix.
7. Ridge Avenue (East Falls/Roxborough) – High traffic and curves make it hazardous when icy.

Bridges and Overpasses

Bridges freeze before regular roads, so be cautious on:

• Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) bridges
• Walt Whitman, Ben Franklin, Betsy Ross, and Tacony-Palmyra Bridges
• Broad Street overpasses
• Vine Street Expressway ramps and bridges

Highway Danger Zones

• I-95 (especially ramps and curves)
• Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), particularly near Conshohocken Curve
• Roosevelt Boulevard (Route 1) – High speeds make ice even more dangerous
• Kelly Drive and MLK Drive – Near the river, they freeze quickly

Low-Traffic, Poorly Plowed Streets

• Cobblestone streets in Old City and Society Hill – These become incredibly slick.
• Smaller residential streets in South Philly – Often don’t get salted quickly.
• Alleys and backstreets in Center City – Stay icy longer due to lack of sun exposure.

Tips to Stay Safe:

• Avoid hills if possible – Especially in areas like Manayunk and Roxborough.
• Drive cautiously on bridges and ramps – They freeze first.
• Stick to main roads when possible – They are salted and plowed more frequently.
• Be mindful of black ice – Especially early in the morning or late at night.

REMEMBER TO CALL PENN DOT’S PA511 (dial 5-1-1) for the most up-to-date information on roadways, particularly during bad weather.