Pennsylvania – Cold air bites early as brake lights glow on damp pavement, a warning sign before winter weather tightens its grip. Light snow and sleet begin working into the region today, setting up slippery travel just as the first full weekend of winter gets underway.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from this afternoon through Saturday morning for eastern and southeastern Pennsylvania. Parts of the Philadelphia metro area could see 1 to 3 inches of snow and sleet, along with a light glaze of ice that complicates driving conditions.
Across Philadelphia, temperatures hover near freezing as precipitation changes from snow to sleet and possibly freezing rain later today. Even small ice amounts can cause trouble on bridges, overpasses, and untreated side streets. Major routes like I-95, I-76, and Roosevelt Boulevard may turn slick during heavier bursts.
Conditions may deteriorate quickly by evening. Slush builds on roadways, then hardens as colder air settles in. Drivers should slow down, increase following distance, and plan extra time if heading out for weekend travel. Pedestrians should also watch for icy sidewalks and steps.
Saturday brings lingering clouds and patchy slick spots before gradual improvement. Any melting during daylight could refreeze after dark, raising black ice concerns again. Looking ahead, temperatures rebound slightly Sunday with a chance of rain, followed by another cooldown early next week.
Meteorologists are also monitoring midweek conditions ahead of New Year’s Eve 2026, as fluctuating temperatures could bring additional wet or wintry travel issues. Stay weather-aware as the holiday travel rush continues.
Heading out this weekend? Let us know what road conditions look like in your neighborhood.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Philadelphia, PA
Today: Snow and sleet develop, highs near 31°F
Saturday: Wintry mix early, then cloudy, highs near 37°F
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain, highs near 40°F
Monday: Rain likely, highs near 54°F
Tuesday: Partly sunny, cooler, highs near 33°F
