Pennsylvania starts the morning with crisp air, clear skies, and a sense of calm that will not last long.
Sunlight helps temperatures climb quickly, but meteorologists are tracking a developing system that changes conditions fast.
Warm air surges north as the day unfolds. Afternoon temperatures push toward 50 degrees, well above seasonal norms. By late day, clouds increase, signaling the next shift. The air feels mild, but winter hazards remain close behind.
Rain chances rise Friday afternoon as moisture spreads into the region. Wet pavement develops quickly during peak travel hours. Drivers should expect slick roads, especially along I-95, I-76, and major commuter routes. Visibility may drop at times as steadier rain moves in.
Rain becomes more widespread Friday night and continues through much of Saturday. Temperatures peak near 61 degrees, an unusually warm January reading. While snow is not expected, winter impacts still matter. Standing water, fog, and spray can slow traffic and increase crash risks.
By Saturday evening, rain gradually tapers. Cooler air slides in behind the system. Sunday brings a break in steady rainfall, though spotty showers linger early. Highs settle back into the low 50s before temperatures fall sharply after sunset.
That cooldown raises another concern. As skies clear Sunday night, lows drop near 30 degrees. Any leftover moisture may refreeze, creating black ice on untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges. Flash freezing is possible where puddles remain.
Looking into next week, sunshine returns with colder mornings. Highs hover in the low 40s, reminding residents winter is still in control. Daylight continues to stretch longer, adding nearly 40 extra minutes by late January in Philadelphia.
Plan ahead: keep umbrellas handy, slow down on wet roads, and watch for icy patches late weekend.
Five-Day Outlook (Philadelphia, PA)
- Today: Sunny, high near 50°F
- Friday: Clouds with rain developing late, high near 56°F
- Saturday: Rain likely, warm, high near 61°F
- Sunday: Early showers, cooler, high near 52°F
- Monday: Sunny and colder, high near 41°F
