Non-Essential Businesses Ordered To Shut Down in the City of Philadelphia

As of 5 pm today (March 16), all non-essential businesses in the city of Philadelphia will be ordered to shut down until further notice. The news was just announced during a Monday afternoon press conference from city officials.

Additionally, they're recommending the cancellation of gatherings of more than 50 people.

Essential businesses to remain open during this time. This includes grocery stores, big box stores, pharmacies, daycare centers, gas stations, banks, post offices, laundromats, veterinary offices, pet stores.

All restaurants are being told to end dine-in service, but they will be allowed to accommodate online and phone orders for delivery and pick-up.

Additionally, the city is halting all non-essential government operations. Public safety, health and human services, utilities, public sanitation and more will still be functional in the city.

Similar measures have been in place in the counties surrounding Philadelphia, and New Jersey's governor, Phil Murphy signed a similar order for New Jersey today as well.

"Let's be calm, but be sensible. Look out for each other. Look out for your elderly neighbors. Although you're not supposed to have physical contact, you could perhaps order groceries," Mayor Kenney said during the press conference.