Key Takeaways
- A strong winter storm is approaching the Philadelphia region, with a NEXT Weather Alert in effect from 3 p.m. Friday to 10 a.m. Saturday
- The storm poses a threat of freezing rain and ice, with the potential for heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain in different areas
- Snow totals are expected to vary, with 4-8 inches possible in parts of the Lehigh Valley and Poconos, and 1-2 inches in Philadelphia and surrounding areas
- The storm may cause delays and cancellations at the airport, as well as delays on trains and buses, and scattered power outages are possible
- Another storm system is expected to bring rain to the region on Sunday night, followed by a bitterly cold blast next week
Introduction to the Winter Storm
A powerful winter storm is expected to hit the Philadelphia region on Friday evening and overnight into Saturday, bringing with it a range of hazardous weather conditions. The storm is forecasted to begin after 3 p.m. on Friday, with a NEXT Weather Alert in effect until 10 a.m. Saturday. Residents are advised to be where they need to be by 3 p.m. on Friday to avoid traveling during the worst of the storm. Friday morning will be cloudy with temperatures below freezing, setting the stage for a potentially treacherous evening commute.
Storm Details and Warnings
A winter storm warning is in effect for the Poconos and parts of the Lehigh Valley, while a winter weather advisory is in place for the remainder of the Philly area and much of Pennsylvania, New York, and West Virginia. The storm’s threat of freezing rain and ice is what makes it so dangerous, with the potential for heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain in different areas. The precipitation may start as all snow, except in southern Delaware and South Jersey, which will get rain. In Philly, precipitation will shift between snow, sleet, and freezing rain, making travel conditions particularly hazardous.
Snow and Ice Accumulations
The snow-sleet totals are expected to vary depending on the location, with the heaviest snowfall expected north of a line from the Lehigh Valley to North Jersey and New York. Parts of the Lehigh Valley and Poconos can expect 4-8 inches of snow, while Philadelphia and surrounding areas may see 1-2 inches of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Other areas, such as Salem, Cumberland, and New Castle counties, may see a coating to 1 inch of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Meanwhile, Cape May and Kent counties can expect rain.
Impact on Travel and Daily Life
The storm is expected to cause significant disruptions to travel and daily life, with roads across the region potentially becoming dangerous due to snowpack or up to 0.2 inches of ice. The messy weather may cause delays and cancellations at the airport, as well as delays on trains and buses. Scattered power outages are also possible, adding to the overall disruption. Residents are advised to plan ahead, stock up on supplies, and stay informed about the latest weather forecast and travel advisories.
Looking Ahead to the Next Week
Another storm system is expected to bring rain to the region on Sunday night, followed by a bitterly cold blast next week for the final week of 2025. The 7-day forecast shows a chance of rain late on Sunday, with mild temperatures and showers on Monday. However, the cold weather will return on Tuesday, with very cold temperatures expected. The chilly weather will continue into the new year, with a cold start to 2026 expected on Thursday. Residents are advised to stay warm and stay informed about the latest weather forecast to plan ahead for the next week.
