PHILADELPHIA — A dangerous Arctic outbreak will impact eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware from late tonight through Saturday night, bringing brutally cold wind chills and damaging wind gusts, according to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly.
An Arctic front will sweep through the region late tonight, followed by rapidly strengthening northwest winds. By Saturday morning, sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts between 45 and 60 mph are expected across much of the area. The strongest gusts are forecast near the coast and along major travel corridors including Interstate 95, I-295, I-76, Route 1, and the Garden State Parkway.
As temperatures fall into the teens and lower 20s, the strong winds will drive wind chills down to -10° to -20° across much of the region, with wind chills near -30° possible in the Poconos and northern New Jersey. Extreme Cold Warnings and Wind Advisories are now in effect for many locations.
These conditions pose a serious risk of frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 15 to 30 minutes. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and ensure pets are brought inside. Power outages are possible due to strong winds, and unsecured objects may be blown around.
Travel conditions may also deteriorate quickly, especially on bridges and elevated roadways where blowing snow or flash freezing could occur. Motorists should use caution and allow extra travel time, particularly during Saturday morning and evening.
Conditions will remain dangerously cold through Saturday night before winds gradually ease Sunday morning. While temperatures will recover slightly, cold weather precautions should remain in place through the weekend.
Stay tuned to the National Weather Service and local emergency officials for updates and safety information.
