The Philadelphia area, along with its surrounding suburbs in Pennsylvania, South Jersey, and Delaware, is bracing for what could be the most significant snowstorm in years. A FIRST ALERT is in effect from 11 p.m. on Friday, January 23, until 7 a.m. on Monday, January 26, due to the forecast of an arctic blast, heavy snow, and potential freezing rain.
The arctic conditions are expected to arrive late Friday night, bringing with them some of the coldest temperatures seen this season, with Saturday morning lows likely to be in the single digits, around 12 degrees in the Philadelphia area. Wind chills could make it feel even colder, plunging temperatures below zero.
Snow is anticipated to start moving into the Philadelphia region around 4 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, becoming heavy by 9 a.m. and continuing until approximately 2:30 p.m. Thereafter, the precipitation is forecasted to shift to a mix of sleet and freezing rain, with a prolonged period of these wintry conditions likely stretching into late Sunday evening. Light snow and flurries are expected to linger into early Monday morning as the storm system exits the area.
Accumulation predictions are substantial, with the Philadelphia area expecting between 9 to 13 inches of snow. The Lehigh Valley could see between 13 to 18 inches, while South Jersey is projected to receive 5 to 9 inches. Coastal Delaware and the Jersey Shore may experience lighter snowfall totals, ranging from 3 to 5 inches.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated by following the NBC10 First Alert Weather team and by using the NBC10 app for the latest forecasts as the snowstorm approaches. This weather event serves as a reminder of the power of winter storms and the importance of preparedness during such extreme conditions.