Philadelphia, PA – A deep December cold snap is tightening across the Delaware Valley, and forecasters warn that the incoming blast of Arctic air could bring the city its first measurable snowfall of the month. Temperatures are expected to plunge from the upper 30s into the 20s by Friday night, setting up a wintry mix and potentially slick travel through the weekend.
Growing Snow Potential as Cold Front Moves In
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service say Friday will remain partly sunny but sharply colder, with a high near 37°F before an overnight drop well below freezing. A developing 40 percent chance of snow late Friday into early Saturday could coat untreated roads and create early hazards.
One forecaster noted,
“Even light accumulations can lead to slippery conditions, especially on bridges, shaded areas, and major routes where temperatures quickly fall below freezing.”
Commuters along I-95, Route 1, and surrounding corridors may encounter scattered ice patches and reduced visibility if snow bands develop during the early morning hours.
Wind Gusts to Intensify the Cold
While precipitation amounts remain uncertain, winds will not be. Gusts up to 35 mph are expected Friday into Saturday, pushing wind chills into the teens and creating an even sharper bite in the morning air. Officials caution residents to watch for flash-freezing, a phenomenon where rapidly falling temperatures turn wet pavement into ice within minutes.
First Significant Cold Snap of the Season
This weekend marks the region’s first encounter with extended Arctic air. Temperatures will stay below average through next week, with highs barely breaking the low 30s. Weather experts say this early-season pattern could indicate a colder, more active December ahead for the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.
Long-range forecast models also hint at additional chances for light snow between December 12 and 17 as cold air remains firmly anchored over the region.
Philadelphia’s Five-Day Outlook
Residents should expect a stretch of chilly, unsettled days as winter conditions settle in:
Thursday: Mostly sunny, breezy, high near 38°F
Friday: Partly sunny, high near 37°F; snow chance develops late
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 40°F; 40% chance of early snow
Sunday: Clear and cold, low near 18°F, high around 33°F
Monday: Mostly sunny and cold, high near 30°F
Preparing for the Weekend Chill
Officials advise residents to bundle up, protect pets from the cold, and check in on anyone lacking safe heat. Drivers should prepare for delays, icy patches, and changing road conditions as temperatures drop. Local agencies are urging the public to monitor updates as the first round of wintry weather arrives.
Share your experiences with the changing weather and local conditions in the comments below.
