Bay area residents waking up to patchy fog this morning might want to pack a small umbrella—there's a chance of showers between 3pm and 5pm, and the possibility of thunderstorms post 5pm today. According to a forecast published by the National Weather Service Philadelphia, the day will be mostly cloudy with a high near 83 degrees, while evening commutes could be affected by the expected precipitation.
That fog, which caused visibility to drop to a quarter mile or less in some areas this morning, prompted a Dense Fog Advisory by the NWS Mount Holly NJ. The advisory was in effect until 9 AM EDT and covered parts of east central and southeast Pennsylvania, including Berks, Lehigh, and Northampton. "Low visibility could make driving conditions hazardous," the NWS cautioned, reminding drivers to slow down, use headlights, and maintain a safe distance on the roads.
Looking ahead, tonight's forecast holds a 70% chance of showers and possibly thunderstorms before 11pm, then likely showers and a potential thunderstorm between 11pm and 4am, followed again by a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4am. Visibility is likely to remain limited due to continued mostly cloudy skies, with temperatures lingering around 68 degrees and new rainfall amounts estimated between a quarter and half an inch.
For those planning further ahead, the murky weather seems to persist with an 80% chance of showers and possible thunderstorm on Thursday. The high's expected near 80 degrees with new rainfall possibly between a quarter and half of a inch again. This pattern of showers stretches into the weekend with a 30% chance on Saturday, though by Sunday, the skies will likely clear up a bit with mostly cloudy conditions predicting a high near 78.
The special weather statement issued early this morning by the NWS, also echoed concerns of locally dense fog. "Locally dense fog has developed across portions of the region," the statement said, and urged morning travelers to remain vigilant and cautious. Visibility is predicted to improve later in the day, but the sentiment remains—stay watchful and be prepared for inconsistent weather patterns as the week continues.
