Pennsylvania – Sharp, dry cold cuts across sidewalks this morning as breath hangs in the air and metal railings sting to the touch. Temperatures sit in the teens around Philadelphia, and even sunny breaks later today will not soften the chill much.
According to the National Weather Service in Philadelphia, hazardous weather remains limited early, but confidence is rising in a more disruptive winter pattern developing into the weekend and early next week. Arctic air continues pressing east while storm energy lines up across the central United States.
For now, conditions stay quiet but cold. Highs reach the mid-30s today, then slip back below freezing tonight. Any moisture left on roads from melting snow or treated pavement may refreeze after sunset. Drivers should stay alert on I-95, I-76, and local bridges, where black ice can form quickly.
Thursday brings more sun and a brief moderation, with highs climbing into the mid-40s. That improvement is short-lived. Cooler air returns Friday, and by Saturday night, snow becomes increasingly likely. Snow chances rise after dark Saturday and continue into Sunday, with the highest impacts expected during early travel hours. Accumulations remain uncertain, but even light snow could snarl traffic and slow regional rail.
Beyond the weekend, colder-than-normal temperatures are favored across much of the East during the six-to-ten-day period. Precipitation chances also increase, meaning additional snow opportunities may follow as systems track along the cold boundary.
Residents should plan errands early, allow extra travel time this weekend, and keep winter gear ready. Conditions may change quickly once snow begins.
Five-Day Outlook for Philadelphia, PA
- Today: Increasing clouds, high near 36°F
- Tonight: Mostly cloudy, low near 31°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 45°F
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 33°F
- Saturday: Cold, high near 19°F; snow likely Saturday night
