Key Takeaways:
- A winter storm watch has been issued for eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey, effective from Friday afternoon to Saturday morning
- Philadelphia is expected to receive 1-4 inches of snow on Friday into the night, with light precipitation lingering into Saturday morning
- The type and amount of precipitation may vary, with some areas potentially receiving snow, sleet, freezing rain, or plain rain
- Travel plans on Friday evening may be impacted due to snowy and icy roads
- Christmas Day is expected to be mild, with above-average temperatures and a chance of light showers
Introduction to the Winter Storm
Philadelphia is unlikely to have a white Christmas, but snow is on the horizon for the weekend. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for much of eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey on Wednesday afternoon, which will be in effect from Friday afternoon through Saturday morning. This watch indicates that significant winter weather is possible, and residents should be prepared for potential disruptions to their plans. The National Weather Service is "near 100% confident" that most of the Philly area will get some form of winter precipitation, but the exact type, amount, and timing remain uncertain.
Winter Storm Forecast
According to Eric Hoeflich, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, "We’re likely going to see an impactful winter storm." Philadelphia may receive between 1 and 4 inches of snow on Friday into the night, with light precipitation lingering into Saturday morning. However, the type and amount of precipitation may vary, with some areas potentially receiving snow, sleet, freezing rain, or plain rain. The National Weather Service expects between 1 and 3 inches of precipitation in northern Delaware, far southern New Jersey, and Southeastern Pennsylvania, while eastern Pennsylvania and much of New Jersey may see 4 to 7 inches.
Christmas Day Weather
Ahead of the expected weekend storm, Philadelphians are unlikely to be greeted with snow-dusted streets on Christmas morning. Instead, Christmas Day is expected to be mild, with above-average temperatures and a chance of light showers in the morning. The National Weather Service forecasts highs in the mid-40s, making it "not great weather, but not bad either for late December." This will be a welcome respite from the cold and snowy weather that is expected to arrive on Friday.
Previous Snowfall and Travel Impacts
Friday’s winter weather event would mark the second measurable snowfall of the season in Philly. The snowstorm that swept across the Philadelphia region on December 14 dumped 4.2 inches of snow at Philadelphia International Airport, with some suburban communities in Bucks and Chester Counties recording over 8 inches. If you’re planning to travel on Friday evening, expect impacts to your plans, as roads may get snowy and icy. Those flying out of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) can check The Inquirer’s end-of-year PHL tracker to see how delays and cancellations are stacking up.
Preparation and Planning
As the winter storm approaches, it’s essential to prepare and plan accordingly. Residents should check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, and consider alternative plans if necessary. The National Weather Service and local authorities will provide updates and advisories as the storm approaches, so it’s crucial to stay informed and stay safe. By being prepared and planning ahead, Philadelphians can minimize the impacts of the winter storm and enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.
