As Philadelphians bundle up to face a chilly start to the year, the National Weather Service in Philadelphia is forecasting a mixed bag of conditions through the week. According to a recent update provided by the NWS, today we're expecting to see an increase in cloud coverage with highs reaching up to 41°F. Westerly winds are blowing at a steady clip of 15 mph, gusting up to a brisk 35 mph.
While the city prepares to gently acclimate to the brisk temperatures, the mercury is set to drop tonight to a low of around 28°F. Residents should continue to anticipate clear skies with the persistent West wind blowing at 10 to 15 mph. The shift in weather is typical for this time of year, as patterns begin to turn and fluctuate, heralding the deeper throes of winter yet to come.
The forecast shared by the NWS includes a 30% chance of snow showers Friday afternoon, potentially mixing with rain as the temperature hovers near the 40-degree mark. The wind chill factor, still an ever-present companion, is expected to substantially lower the felt temperatures. Commuters should prepare for potential minor, and yet disruptive, accumulations of snow before the workday’s end.
The weekend ushers in more sunlight with mostly sunny conditions on Saturday and a high near 34°F. But as one might have expected, the West wind refuses to fully relent, maintaining speeds around 15 mph with gusts possibly reaching up to 30 mph. Philadelphians should brace for chilly winds throughout the night as temperatures drop to 24°F.
Looking ahead to the start of the next work week, snow seems probable with the NWS citing a 60% chance of snowfall on Monday, primarily before the afternoon. Light flurries may dust the city, with less than an inch of snow expected. Daytime skies will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 33°F. After the snowfall, the weather promises a clearer outlook with sunny skies on Tuesday and temperatures once again in the low 30s. The pattern of clear nighttime skies and crisp temperatures continues with a low of around 21°F. For the full and most current weather report, Philadelphia residents can always turn to the NWS website for detailed updates.
