Pennsylvania – Cold air settles in sharply this morning as winter officially begins, leaving windshields frosted and sidewalks stiff under clear skies. Breath turns visible quickly, and the chill feels more biting than earlier this week across southeastern Pennsylvania.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, temperatures hover in the low 30s early, with wind chills slipping into the upper 20s. Sunshine helps this afternoon, pushing highs into the mid-40s, but winds gusting over 20 mph keep it feeling colder than the numbers suggest. Drivers should still watch shaded roads where early moisture may linger.
Tonight turns colder. Clear skies allow temperatures to drop into the mid-20s, setting the stage for slick conditions early Monday. Monday stays dry and sunny, though cooler, with highs near 40. That calm window does not last long.
By Monday night, clouds thicken and a developing system approaches. Light snow may break out after midnight into early Tuesday, especially north and west of Philadelphia. Accumulation looks light, but timing matters. Even a brief burst could coat untreated roads during the morning commute.
Tuesday brings a quick changeover. Snow may mix with rain, then transition mainly to rain by midmorning as temperatures rise into the mid-40s. Wet pavement and fluctuating temperatures raise concerns for brief icing early, followed by ponding in low spots later.
Midweek brings a break. Wednesday looks bright and dry with highs in the mid-40s. Attention then shifts to Christmas travel. Rain chances increase again late Wednesday night into Christmas Day, potentially slowing travel on I-95, I-76, and the Schuylkill Expressway.
Plan extra time early Tuesday, keep an ice scraper ready, and stay alert to changing conditions. Winter has arrived with a reminder. How cold did it feel outside your door this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Philadelphia, PA
- Today: Sunny and breezy. High near 44.
- Monday: Sunny and colder. High near 39.
- Tuesday: Snow early, changing to rain. High near 46.
- Wednesday: Sunny. High near 45.
- Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain. High near 45.
