Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – Winter does not appear ready to release its grip on Pennsylvania, as Groundhog Day tradition and long-range climate outlooks both point toward a slower path to spring. Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Monday morning, signaling six more weeks of winter and pushing the typical statewide warm-up closer to mid-March.
According to the National Weather Service, Pennsylvania is placed in an “equal chances” category for temperatures from February through April. That means no strong signal favoring sustained warmth or prolonged cold, leaving room for late-season snow, icy stretches, and sharp temperature swings. Central and northern Pennsylvania, including State College, Williamsport, and Scranton, remain especially vulnerable to accumulating snow into March, while Philadelphia and the I-95 corridor could see frequent swings between cold air and brief thaws.
Precipitation is expected to play a larger role. According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Pennsylvania is favored to see above-normal precipitation through early spring. That raises the risk for heavier snow during colder periods and rain or mixed precipitation during warmer breaks, increasing concerns for slick roads, river rises, and localized flooding as snowmelt accelerates.
While the Farmers’ Almanac notes spring officially begins Thursday, March 20, and highlights a total lunar eclipse early Tuesday, March 3, winter impacts may extend beyond those milestones. Pennsylvanians are encouraged to remain weather-aware, plan for variable travel conditions, and monitor updates, as winter advisories could persist well into early spring.
