Pennsylvania – Umbrellas snap open and damp pavement glistens as scattered showers sweep across the Philadelphia region this morning. Warm March air surges in early, but the change ahead will feel dramatic as gusty winds and a sharp temperature drop arrive before Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures climb toward 79°F today across Philadelphia with a 30 percent chance of showers after 5 p.m. Winds increase from the south near 10 to 15 mph. A few thunderstorms may develop as moisture deepens across southeastern Pennsylvania and nearby New Jersey.
Rain becomes more widespread through the evening. Meteorologists say showers and thunderstorms could produce brief downpours before dawn. Rain totals generally range between a tenth and a quarter inch, with locally higher bursts under thunderstorms.
Drivers should plan extra time on I-95, I-76, and the Schuylkill Expressway as wet pavement reduces visibility. Wind gusts may reach 30 mph, especially in exposed areas near bridges and elevated roadways.
By Thursday, the mood shifts quickly. Showers linger early before colder air filters into the region. Temperatures fall into the mid-40s during the afternoon as brisk northwest winds sweep across the Delaware Valley.
A calmer pattern settles in Friday with partly sunny skies and highs near 51°F. Gusty winds could still approach 30 mph, giving the air a brisk March feel.
Sunshine returns Saturday with highs near 52°F, offering the best weather window for outdoor plans. Cloud cover increases again Sunday as the next storm approaches.
Meteorologists now track a soaking rain event late Sunday into early Monday. That system may bring steady rainfall across southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey during the busy spring break travel period.
Longer-range outlooks hint at warmer spring temperatures building late next week as the season slowly turns toward March 20.
Traveling along I-95 or through Center City this weekend? What weather are you seeing in your neighborhood?
Five Day Outlook for Philadelphia, PA
Thursday: Showers early, breezy and cooler. High 58°F then falling to the mid-40s.
Friday: Partly sunny and breezy. High 51°F.
Saturday: Sunny and pleasant. High 52°F.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy. High 56°F.
Monday: Rain likely, breezy conditions. High 63°F.
