The Philadelphia region is bracing for a damp and stormy week. Today's mild drizzles are set to intensify, promising thunderstorms and consistent showers as we march on through the week, according to forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) Philadelphia. While the current temperature reads a moderate 64°F with a notable 90% humidity, conditions are expected to get wetter and slightly warmer as the days progress.
With the showers, residents should anticipate patchy morning fog and a high near 69°F today. Light southeast winds will pick up, moving 5 to 10 mph in the morning. The NWS Philadelphia states that "showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 5 am" will be a feature tonight. Current predictions show a 100% chance of rainfall, with new amounts tallying up between a half and three-quarters of an inch.
Wednesday is set to continue this trend; the NWS expects showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 8 am. After a brief pause, this will be followed by more showers and potentially another thunderstorm in the afternoon. An east wind is due to blow at 10 to 15 mph, with new rainfall amounts potentially reaching up to half an inch.
Alongside the precipitation, Philadelphia and surrounding counties are also under a coastal flood advisory from the NWS. "Up to one foot of inundation above ground level expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways" is predicted from 1 am to 6 am EDT Wednesday. This could result in "flooding begins on the most vulnerable roads along tidal waterways," and "Some partial or full road closures are possible." These conditions are not unique to the area, with minor coastal flooding also in the forecast for Wednesday and Thursday nights in other affected areas.
For those situated along the Delaware River at Philadelphia, the total tide levels are projected to rise, leading to minor flooding impacts. The most critical time period appears to be the early mornings when the high tide will reach its peak. Burlington is also slated to experience minor flooding, with the Delaware River expected to crest at levels warranting attention, specifically in the early hours of Wednesday and Thursday.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to take necessary precautions, including preparing for possible road closures and protecting property prone to flooding. As the stormy weather descends, staying updated on the latest weather advisories and being prepared for sudden changes is crucial. Local authorities may issue further guidance as conditions evolve.
