Philadelphia, PA – A complex winter storm is expected to impact eastern Pennsylvania, most of New Jersey, and northern Delmarva beginning Friday afternoon, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain that could significantly disrupt post-Christmas travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly, Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories are in effect from Friday afternoon through Saturday morning as precipitation spreads west to east across the region.
Forecasters say snow will begin Friday afternoon, especially near and north of Interstate 80 in eastern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey, where 5 to 8 inches of snow are expected, with localized totals up to 10 inches possible. Snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour Friday evening, quickly covering roads.
Farther south — including the I-78 corridor, the I-95 corridor near Philadelphia, and parts of central and southern New Jersey — snow is expected to transition to sleet and freezing rain Friday evening into Friday night. Ice accumulations of up to one-tenth of an inch are possible, enough to create slick and hazardous travel conditions.
Across southern New Jersey and much of Delmarva, precipitation may change over to mostly rain after a brief period of snow, limiting snow totals but still creating slippery roads during the transition.
The National Weather Service warns that travel disruptions are likely, particularly Friday evening into early Saturday morning, with bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads becoming hazardous. The timing coincides with peak post-holiday travel, increasing the risk for delays and accidents.
Residents are urged to delay unnecessary travel, monitor road conditions, and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions. Snow and ice are expected to taper Saturday morning, but lingering impacts may persist through midday.
