Pennsylvania braces for a sharp turn toward bitter cold as winds roar behind the snow. Side streets glitter with leftover flakes while gusts whip loose snow into the air. Visibility drops suddenly, and the cold cuts fast. Conditions deteriorate through the day, especially for anyone traveling or working outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly, winds increase today with gusts reaching 30 to 40 mph, continuing into tonight. Those strong winds combine with leftover snow to create areas of blowing snow, which may briefly reduce visibility on roadways across eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Temperatures struggle to recover after the snowfall. Many areas may not climb above freezing today, keeping untreated roads slick. Tonight, low temperatures fall into the teens, and the wind makes it feel far colder. Wind chill values drop to near 0° and as low as -10°, especially late tonight into early Monday.
Drivers should expect rapidly changing conditions. Gusts can sweep snow back onto cleared roads, especially on open highways and bridges. Plan extra travel time, slow down, and keep headlights on, even during daylight hours.
This cold snap arrives as the week before Christmas begins, when holiday travel starts to increase. The sudden shift from snow to extreme cold raises the risk of flash freezing, where melted snow refreezes quickly after sunset.
Looking ahead, the cold eases slowly. Winds remain brisk into Monday, but temperatures begin a gradual rebound by midweek.
Five-Day Outlook – Philadelphia Region
- Today: Windy, bitter cold, blowing snow risk
- Tonight: Teens, wind chills near 0° to -10°
- Monday: Cold but improving winds
- Tuesday–Wednesday: Moderating temperatures
- Late Week: Milder December weather returns
