Allentown, Pennsylvania – Light freezing rain is expected across the northern portion of the region tonight, raising concerns for slippery travel conditions along major roadways including Interstate 78, Interstate 80, and Route 33.
According to the National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly, ice accumulations up to one-tenth of an inch are possible through the first half of the night. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for northern Lehigh Valley areas, the southern Poconos, and portions of central and northern New Jersey until 2 a.m. Wednesday.
Forecasters say the freezing rain will mainly impact areas north of I-78 and I-80, while locations farther south, including much of the I-95 corridor, are expected to remain mainly dry. Even minor ice accumulation, however, may lead to slick untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses, particularly during late-evening and overnight travel.
The highest risk window for icy conditions is expected this evening through shortly after midnight, when surface temperatures remain at or below freezing. Motorists traveling along I-78, I-80, I-287, I-295, and US-202 are urged to use caution, reduce speeds, and allow extra stopping distance.
By early Wednesday morning, temperatures are expected to gradually rise above freezing in many areas, allowing conditions to improve. No significant additional precipitation is expected after the freezing rain ends.
The advisory area includes Lehigh, Northampton, Monroe, and Sussex counties, along with parts of Hunterdon, Morris, and Warren counties in New Jersey.
This weather setup may impact overnight commuters, delivery drivers, and early-morning workers, particularly in elevated or rural locations where roads cool more quickly.
