STATE COLLEGE, Pennsylvania – Sunshine paints a quiet start to Tuesday across central Pennsylvania, but gray skies and soaking rain are on the horizon. A strong fall system will move in midweek, bringing periods of steady rainfall, gusty winds, and cooler air just as Halloween weekend begins.
According to the National Weather Service in State College, Tuesday’s calm conditions will give way to increasing clouds Wednesday as moisture builds along an approaching front. Showers are expected to develop after midday Wednesday and become widespread by evening. Rain may turn heavy at times into Thursday, with thunder possible across Centre, Clinton, and Clearfield Counties. Drivers should expect wet roads, reduced visibility, and ponding in low spots—especially along I-80 and U.S. 322 during the Wednesday evening commute.
Rain continues through Thursday before tapering late Thursday night as cooler, drier air filters in. Temperatures will dip into the low 40s Thursday night, signaling the start of a more seasonable stretch. Friday will bring a crisp, breezy feel with scattered light showers and highs in the lower 50s—just enough chill to make Halloween evening feel classic. Trick-or-treaters should plan for cool air, gusts near 20 mph, and damp ground from earlier rainfall.
The weekend looks quieter with partial clearing and seasonable highs near 50. However, models hint at another round of light rain or drizzle by Sunday night as early November ushers in a chillier, more unsettled pattern. After all, central Pennsylvania rarely escapes its first taste of winter for long once Halloween fades.
Five-Day Forecast for State College, PA:
Tue: 54/32 – Sunny and calm; pleasant fall day.
Wed: 54/42 – Clouds increase; rain develops late.
Thu: 57/43 – Steady rain; breezy with thunder possible.
Fri: 51/39 – Breezy and cool; scattered showers possible for Halloween.
Sat: 51/35 – Partly sunny; early signs of a chillier November ahead.
