Philadelphia, PA – A thin layer of crisp air hangs over the city this morning as clouds advance from the southwest and wet pavement glints under the first hints of incoming rain. Conditions shift quickly today, setting up a damp stretch that could slow early holiday travel and bring brief thunder near the I-95 corridor. Residents heading out early should carry rain layers, charge phones, and allow extra minutes for buses and regional rail as visibility dips during the steadiest showers.
According to the National Weather Service Mount Holly, moisture increases through today as a broad disturbance crosses the Mid-Atlantic. A few light showers start first, then steadier rain develops as winds rise from the west. Gusts may touch 25 mph in exposed areas, especially near the river and airport. Streets with heavy leaf buildup could back up quickly, and drivers should watch for slick patches near ramps along I-76 and Route 1.
According to PennDOT, Saturday carries the highest impact window when a warm push briefly lifts highs into the upper 50s before a line of showers and isolated thunderstorms slides through during the afternoon. Heavier bursts could reduce visibility and prompt slowdowns on the Schuylkill and Vine Street Expressway. To be fair, the system remains fast-moving, and drier air sweeps in by late Saturday.
Sunday brings brighter skies and cooler air, ending the wet stretch and offering comfortable conditions for leaf cleanup or early Christmas decorating. Models hint at a subtle Winter Tease next week as colder air gathers to the northwest. A minor snow chance may form in the interior Northeast before Thanksgiving, though Philadelphia stays rain-favored for now.
Five-Day Forecast for Philadelphia, PA:
Fri: 53/35 – Increasing clouds; showers develop; breezy near I-95.
Sat: 57/50 – Mild with rain; brief t-storms possible; gusty at times.
Sun: 59/38 – Mostly sunny; cooler breeze.
Mon: 49/34 – Mostly clear and crisp.
Tue: 47/34 – Partly sunny; early winter chill lingering.
