Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A prolonged stretch of unsettled winter weather is expected to impact the Mid-Atlantic region from Thursday through Monday, bringing above-normal precipitation and an elevated risk of rain, freezing rain, and hazardous travel across multiple states.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, much of the Mid-Atlantic is positioned within an above-normal precipitation zone for the January 15–19 period. Temperatures are expected to hover near or just below freezing at times, especially overnight, increasing the likelihood of mixed precipitation and icy road conditions.
In eastern New York, including the Hudson Valley and Capital Region, cold rain is expected at times, with freezing rain and sleet possible inland during overnight hours. Elevated surfaces and untreated roads may become slick, particularly north and west of Albany. New Jersey is likely to see widespread rain along the I-95 corridor, while interior counties face a higher risk for brief freezing rain during colder periods.
Across eastern Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley, and the Poconos, rain will dominate in lower elevations, but freezing rain and sleet remain a concern farther north and west, especially late at night and early mornings. Delaware should expect mostly cold rain, though isolated icing is possible inland during overnight temperature drops.
In Maryland, the Interstate 95 corridor from Baltimore to Washington is expected to see mainly rain, while the Eastern Shore and northern counties face a greater risk of freezing rain. Virginia, particularly central and northern sections, may also see periods of rain with freezing rain possible overnight, especially away from the immediate coast.
This pattern is being driven by repeated systems tracking along the eastern storm corridor while cold air remains trapped near the surface. Bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads will be most vulnerable to icing.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts, allow extra travel time, and avoid unnecessary travel during icy periods. This active Mid-Atlantic pattern is expected to persist through Monday, with additional advisories or warnings likely as individual systems move through the region.
