Philadelphia residents better break out the rain boots. The City of Brotherly Love is bracing for a host of wet weather and potential flooding as the National Weather Service (NWS) in Mount Holly issues a series of forecasts and advisories. Today, Philly is expected to soak in some mostly sunny skies with a high near 65, before dipping into a partly cloudy evening with a mild 48 degrees. But the temporary reprieve won't last long; starting Tuesday, the city should steel itself for a near-week-long bout of showers and high temps.
According to the NWS, Tuesday will bring mostly sunny skies with a high climbing up to 76, only to have conditions take a turn come nightfall. "Showers likely, mainly after 3am," they warn, noting a 60% chance of nighttime precipitation. This pattern is slated to continue to fast repeat itself over the next several days with "showers likely" remaining a consistent part of the forecast jargon, punctuated by a high of near 70 on Wednesday before the drizzle continues into the weekend.
But it's not just raincoats that Philadelphians will need. The NWS has also issued multiple alerts about minor coastal flooding risks in the region. The waterways are drumming up more than just puddles, with one to two feet of inundation above ground level predicted in low-lying areas. Philly, Gloucester, Camden, Delaware, and Lower Bucks are some of the counties that will need to keep their guard up.
The NWS's Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect until 6 AM EDT Tuesday, emphasizing the need for caution near the shorelines. "One to two feet of inundation above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways," they state, urging locals "to protect flood-prone property." The Delaware River at Philadelphia is expected to crest to minor flood levels this afternoon with an anticipated tide of 8.5 feet. The NWS has also hinted that "A Coastal Flood Warning may be issued" indicating the seriousness of the situation.
For those living and working in the impacted areas, the message is clear: expect to navigate through some potential disruptions. Some roads may become impassable as the NWS warns of "widespread roadway flooding occurs along tidal waterways." The service also encourages weather spotters to report significant conditions as they develop, while reminding commuters that driving through floodwaters is risky—emphasizing the adage, 'Turn around, don't drown.' Philly, it seems, will need to ride out the impending storm with resilience, rain gear at the ready.
