Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A prolonged stretch of wet and potentially icy winter weather is expected to impact eastern Pennsylvania beginning Thursday, raising concerns for hazardous travel and changing road conditions through the weekend and into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, eastern Pennsylvania is positioned within an above-normal precipitation zone through Monday, while temperatures remain near to slightly below seasonal averages. This pattern favors periods of steady rain in lower elevations, with freezing rain and sleet becoming more likely during overnight and early morning hours.
Southeastern Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Norristown, King of Prussia, and Chester County, is expected to see mainly cold rain. However, brief freezing rain cannot be ruled out late at night, particularly in outlying suburbs. Farther north and west, including the Lehigh Valley, Berks County, and the Poconos, surface temperatures are more likely to hover near freezing, increasing the risk for sleet and freezing rain during heavier precipitation. Higher elevations may briefly mix with snow.
Travel impacts are possible along major routes such as Interstate 95, Interstate 76, Interstate 78, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and Route 33. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads are especially vulnerable to icing, even with minimal accumulation, creating slick conditions during the morning commute.
This unsettled pattern is being driven by a broad cold front pushing through the eastern United States, allowing cold surface air to linger while moisture continues to move northward along the coast. While widespread power outages are not expected, isolated issues could occur in areas that experience ice buildup on trees or power lines.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local alerts, allow extra travel time, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of freezing rain. This active pattern is expected to persist into early next week, with additional advisories or warnings possible as confidence increases.
