Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvania enters the holiday stretch under NOAA’s “equal chances” temperature outlook, but forecasters warn that the state may still see multiple rounds of snow or mixed precipitation between December 20 and January 2. With Christmas and New Years falling inside the window, holiday travel may be impacted across both eastern and western regions.
According to NOAA, Pennsylvania lies within a broad EC zone stretching from Washington to New Jersey, meaning temperatures could trend modestly warmer or colder depending on the timing of incoming storm systems. Still, Pennsylvania’s late-December climate strongly supports snow, especially for interior counties, higher elevations, and areas north of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
For precipitation, Pennsylvania is also in an equal-chances zone, implying totals near seasonal averages. At this time of year, that typically means a mix of snow, wintry combinations, and sometimes rain, depending on location. Several coastal or inland-tracking systems are expected during the Dec. 20–Jan. 2 window, any of which could produce impactful snowfall.
Communities across Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Scranton, State College, and the Harrisburg metro should anticipate slick roads, reduced visibility, and shifting precipitation types during key travel days. The Poconos, Laurel Highlands, northern tier, and Appalachian regions are favored for more consistent snowfall and may see the strongest chances for a White Christmas.
Downstate and southeastern areas may face rain-to-snow transitions or mixed precipitation before colder air filters in behind passing systems.
If timing aligns, Pennsylvania could start 2026 with a wintry landscape and fresh snowfall, especially in the western and northern counties.
Residents are encouraged to monitor daily updates as storm tracks become clearer.
