Mount Holly, New Jersey – Travel disruptions are increasingly likely beginning Friday afternoon as a winter storm brings widespread wintry precipitation to the Mid-Atlantic.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service office in Philadelphia/Mount Holly, confidence is near 100 percent that wintry precipitation will affect much of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, northern Delaware, and parts of northeastern Maryland from Friday afternoon into early Saturday.
While exact snowfall and ice totals remain uncertain, the National Weather Service reports a high probability for at least two inches of snow or sleet across much of the region. Forecast graphics shared by the agency show probabilities exceeding 50 percent across the Philadelphia metro area, with higher chances north and east into central New Jersey and the New York City region.
A wintry mix is expected for much of southeastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, and northern Delmarva, where sleet may be the dominant precipitation type. The National Weather Service also notes the potential for up to one-tenth of an inch of freezing rain in parts of southern New Jersey and Delmarva, which could further complicate travel conditions.
Areas farther east are more likely to see primarily snow, while some locations to the south and southwest could see a brief mix early before changing to rain. Travel impacts are expected to begin Friday afternoon and may persist through early Saturday morning.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that even modest snow and ice accumulations can lead to hazardous road conditions, especially during peak travel periods. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads are expected to be particularly vulnerable.
Commuters, holiday travelers, and those with Friday evening plans are encouraged to monitor forecast updates closely as the storm approaches. Preparations should be made for slower travel, potential delays, and rapidly changing road conditions.
Additional updates are expected as confidence in precipitation types and timing improves.
