PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Heavy snow has prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to issue a ground stop barring flights from taking off for Philadelphia International Airport.

Airport spokeswoman Mary Flannery said the action was taken late Saturday afternoon due to the reduced visibility and high winds in the storm.

Philadelphia International Airport
Arial view of Philadelphia International Airport in this file photo. (Philadelphia International Airport)
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She said about 20 percent of the flights into and out of the airport have been canceled so far, and a ground delay issued earlier to stagger arrivals had led to 1½ hour delays.

Forecasters earlier said the storm was expected to bring 4 to 6 inches of snow to the area along with a trace of ice that would likely hamper travel.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation earlier reduced speed limits to 45 mph on a number of interstates and highways.

 

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