Philadelphia’s leaders warned people not to walk and skate on frozen waterways due to the risk of falling in.
In a statement to NBC10, a spokesperson from Mayor Cherelle Parker’s office said, “The City of Philadelphia urges residents and visitors to stay off all frozen rivers, lakes, and waterways. Walking, skating, or driving on ice is extremely dangerous and can even lead to death.”
“Falling through ice can be fatal within minutes, placing both the public and first responders at serious risk,” the statement continued. “For your safety, please remain on solid ground and avoid all frozen waterways.”
In a social media post to X on Sunday, the Philadelphia Police Department said, “We’re getting reports of people walking and ice skating on Philadelphia’s rivers. This is illegal for a reason. River ice is not as thick as it looks – moving water underneath weakens it and conditions can change fast. Please stay safe and stay off the ice!”
🚨 Safety Alert 🚨
We’re getting reports of people walking and ice skating on Philadelphia’s rivers. This is illegal for a reason. River ice is not as thick as it looks – moving water underneath weakens it and conditions can change fast.
Please stay safe and stay off the ice!— Philadelphia Police Department (@PhillyPolice) February 1, 2026
Although there have been no reported injuries from people falling in the ice as of 10:37 p.m. on Sunday, NBC10 has heard reports of police responding to people walking or skating on ice rivers.