Gettysburg Borough officials, working in coordination with Adams County emergency management partners, have declared a Snow Emergency ahead of the approaching Winter Storm Hernando, which is expected to significantly impact Gettysburg Borough and surrounding areas beginning Sunday, February 22.
The Snow Emergency will take effect at 5:00 a.m. Sunday, February 22, 2026, and remain in place until 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026, unless lifted earlier by borough officials.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm is forecast to bring 6 to 12 inches of heavy, wet snow across Gettysburg Borough and much of Adams County, with locally higher totals possible in elevated areas. Snowfall rates could reach one inch per hour during peak periods, accompanied by wind gusts of 20–30 mph. Snow is expected to begin Sunday morning, intensify through Sunday afternoon and evening, and taper to snow showers by late Monday.
Officials warn that the heavy nature of the snow may increase risks of power outages, falling tree limbs, and injuries related to shoveling and slips and falls. Residents are encouraged to avoid overexertion, take frequent breaks while clearing snow, and check on elderly neighbors and vulnerable individuals.
Travel and parking restrictions
During the Snow Emergency, parking is prohibited along designated Snow Emergency routes. Vehicles left on those streets may be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense to allow crews to clear roads curb to curb. Residents are strongly encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel during peak snowfall.
To assist residents, parking enforcement will be suspended at the Racehorse Alley Parking Garage throughout the emergency period, and borough residents are encouraged to move vehicles off streets and into driveways or approved parking areas when possible.
Sidewalk and snow removal requirements
Property owners and occupants are required to clear sidewalks to a minimum width of 30 inches to allow safe pedestrian passage. Snow and ice must be removed within 12 hours after precipitation ends along snow emergency routes and within 24 hours elsewhere, or fines may be issued. Placing snow or ice into streets is prohibited.
Residents are also asked to clear snow from around fire hydrants to support emergency response operations.
Community impacts expected
Local businesses and institutions should anticipate disruptions, including delayed openings, early closures, delivery interruptions, and potential school and municipal office closures. Emergency officials caution that response times may be delayed during the height of the storm due to hazardous conditions.
Borough officials encourage residents to prepare by stocking emergency supplies, charging electronic devices, and monitoring official borough and county communication channels for updates as conditions evolve.
For additional information and updates, residents may follow Gettysburg Borough, Adams County emergency management, and National Weather Service announcements.