Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Icy road conditions are possible across parts of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and northern Delaware during the Thursday morning commute, according to the National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly.
In a Tuesday evening update, forecasters said a period of light rain is expected to end as snow late Wednesday night, followed by rapidly falling temperatures. As colder air moves in behind the system, temperatures are expected to drop into the 20s by daybreak Thursday, creating conditions favorable for refreezing on untreated roads.
Forecast snow graphics indicate light snowfall Wednesday night, with accumulations generally limited. However, forecasters emphasized that even minimal snow combined with falling temperatures could lead to slick travel conditions. Temperature maps show much of the region near or below freezing by 7 a.m. Thursday, including the Philadelphia metro area, parts of South Jersey, and eastern Pennsylvania.
The greatest concern is for bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads, which tend to freeze first. Early morning motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution, particularly before sunrise when temperatures are lowest.
The National Weather Service noted that while snowfall amounts are expected to be minor, the timing of the temperature drop increases the risk of icy conditions during peak travel hours. Road conditions may improve later Thursday morning as temperatures slowly recover.
This system may affect commuters, students, and early-shift workers, especially those traveling before sunrise. Drivers are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and road conditions before heading out.
Residents across the region should remain alert to changing conditions overnight and into Thursday morning, as small shifts in temperature or precipitation timing could influence road impacts.
Additional updates will be issued if confidence increases in the extent of icy conditions.
