Pennsylvania wakes to biting cold, visible breath, and stiff air across Philadelphia streets. Pavement looks dry now, but winter is clearly testing its footing. Conditions change fast over the next two days, especially for drivers and holiday travelers.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures sit near 28 degrees early, with wind chills in the low 20s. A gradual warm-up follows, topping out in the low 40s later today. Roads remain dry, but shaded spots and bridges may stay slick early. Drivers should slow down during the morning commute.
Milder air pushes in Thursday, lifting highs near 50. That warmth sets the stage for rain by Friday morning. Showers become more likely by midday, with breezy south winds gusting over 30 mph at times. Expect wet pavement on I-95, I-76, Route 1, and local arterials during peak travel hours.
Rain coverage increases through Friday afternoon and early evening. While flooding is not expected locally, visibility may drop during heavier bursts. Allow extra time if heading to the airport or leaving town early for Christmas travel.
Behind the rain, colder air returns quickly. Temperatures drop toward the upper 20s Friday night. Wet roads may refreeze, raising black ice concerns into Saturday morning. Parking lots, ramps, and untreated side streets could turn slick first.
This pattern signals an early winter transition. While snow is not forecast for Philadelphia through Sunday, models hint at colder air pressing east. Major winter storms are impacting parts of the Midwest, and that energy often precedes colder, more active weather in the East.
5-Day Philadelphia Weather Outlook
• Today: Partly sunny, high near 43°
• Thursday: Partly sunny, milder, high near 50°
• Friday: Rain likely, breezy, high near 55°
• Saturday: Partly sunny, colder, high near 41°
• Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 49°
