Philadelphia, PA – A biting wind sweeps across Center City this morning, carrying the unmistakable chill of December’s first true winter push. Cars glisten with frost, and bundled commuters can already feel what’s coming — a wet-to-wintry stretch that could complicate midweek travel across southeastern Pennsylvania.
According to the National Weather Service, Wednesday will bring increasing clouds and a 40% chance of rain, with highs nearing 47°F. The mild air won’t last long. By Thursday night, colder air rushes in, and a rain-to-snow mix becomes likely as temperatures plunge into the upper 20s. While accumulation isn’t expected to be heavy, forecasters warn that slick bridges and untreated roads could freeze quickly after sunset.
The shift marks the start of an extended cold snap, part of a larger Arctic air mass spreading across the Northeast and Great Lakes through mid-December. Meteorologists are also tracking a clipper system that could reinforce cold air and bring light snow chances across Pennsylvania and nearby states between Dec. 11–17, just as early holiday travel ramps up.
By Friday, skies should clear, but the air will stay brisk. Highs will struggle to reach 38°F, with wind chills dipping into the 20s. The weekend remains cold, with a few flurries possible north of the city and highs near 31°F Sunday.
Residents should check heating systems, drive cautiously during temperature drops, and prepare for a frosty start to next week.
Five-Day Outlook (Philadelphia, PA):
- Tuesday: Increasing clouds, high 36°F.
- Wednesday: Rain likely, high 47°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny early, chance of snow late, high 43°F.
- Friday: Clear and cold, high 38°F.
- Saturday: Breezy, low 21°F, high 31°F, flurries possible.
