Philadelphia, PA – A colder and more active weather pattern is taking shape across Pennsylvania from Nov. 29th through Dec. 5th, bringing statewide chances for cold rain, wintry mix, and early-season snowfall — especially in the northern and higher-elevation regions.
According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, temperatures during this period are expected to trend below normal across all of Pennsylvania, including southeastern cities like Philadelphia, central areas around Harrisburg and State College, and the colder northern tier near Scranton, Williamsport, and Erie. Interior and elevated zones may dip below freezing at night, raising the likelihood of accumulating snow when systems pass through.
NOAA’s precipitation outlook also highlights a strong above-normal precipitation signal, suggesting multiple disturbances may affect the state as December begins. Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs are most likely to see cold rain, though brief rain–snow transitions remain possible during late-night and early-morning hours.
Western and northern regions — including the Laurel Highlands, the Allegheny Plateau, the Pocono Mountains, and north-central counties — hold the best chance for early-season snowfall, with several rounds of light to moderate accumulations possible depending on timing and temperature profiles.
Forecasters note that this long-range pattern suggests a series of smaller systems, not one major winter storm. Even so, the combined impact could lead to slick roads, reduced visibility, and commuting delays, particularly along I-80, I-79, I-81, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
As the first week of December approaches, residents across Pennsylvania should monitor changing forecasts as the rain–snow line shifts region by region.
