A Winter Storm Warning is now in effect for the Philadelphia region as the area prepares for a significant snowfall event expected to last through early Sunday morning. The forecast has been updated, anticipating increased snowfall totals, prompting a NEXT Weather Alert for the event.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for the impending snow this Saturday by gathering supplies such as snow shovels, fuel for snow blowers, and groceries. The winter weather advisory will take effect in Philadelphia at 7 p.m. Saturday and will remain active until 1 p.m. Sunday. The snowfall will particularly affect areas including South Jersey and Philadelphia, which are forecasted to receive the highest snow totals.
Additional areas under winter storm warnings include Gloucester County, Camden County, Burlington County, Delaware County, as well as parts of Chester, Bucks, and Montgomery counties. The snow is expected to begin as light rain between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, transitioning to snow overnight. The heaviest snowfall is anticipated to occur from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., with total accumulations in the 3-5 inches range across the region, particularly along the I-95 corridor up to the shore. The Lehigh Valley, too, may see snowfall totals between 2 to 4 inches.
The storm is predicted to clear rapidly early Sunday morning, with snow tapering off from west to east between 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. However, strong winds with gusts ranging from 20 to 30 mph could create blowing snow and unsteady conditions. Following the storm, a cold Arctic air mass will move in on northwesterly winds, leading to bitterly cold temperatures, especially during the Eagles game on Sunday.
Monday is forecasted to be the coldest day in the upcoming week, with temperatures dropping into the 20s and wind chills pushing the perceived temperature into the teens and single digits. A gradual warming trend is anticipated after Monday, with the first signs of temperatures returning to the 50s by Friday.
As we navigate this early winter weather, there is a reminder that we are still in the fall season, with the official winter solstice not occurring until December 21.
The week ahead looks as follows:
– Saturday: Clouds and nighttime snow. High 44, Low 25.
– Sunday: NEXT Weather Alert for morning snow. High 31, Low 28.
– Monday: NEXT Weather Alert for extreme cold. High 31, Low 18.
– Tuesday: Bitterly cold. High 36, Low 21.
– Wednesday: Slightly less cold. High 45, Low 26.
– Thursday: Milder. High 55, Low 32.
– Friday: Mild conditions. High 45, Low 42.
Stay safe and prepared during this winter weather event.