Philadelphia woke up to clear skies and near-freezing temperatures Friday, March 13, 2026, with the thermometer hovering around 32°F at Philadelphia International. The calm start will not last long, though, as a much breezier afternoon takes over. Highs are expected to reach the upper 40s to around 50°F while southwest winds steadily increase through the latter part of the day and into the evening.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Southwest winds are forecast to strengthen this afternoon, with sustained speeds generally between 10 and 15 mph and gusts potentially reaching 35 to 40 mph during the evening commute. A formal Wind Advisory is not anticipated, but a few gusts near advisory level are still on the table. Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and be ready for some blustery moments on area bridges during peak travel, according to the National Weather Service Mount Holly.
Weekend Outlook
The ramped-up winds trail an unusually warm spell earlier in the week that left the region loaded with low-level moisture and energy. That warm surge helped set the stage for this more unsettled pattern. For more on that brief heat-up and how it primed the atmosphere, see earlier coverage on the steamy March heat.
Strong Front And Marine Impacts Monday
A strong cold front is expected on Monday, March 16, 2026, with showers developing Sunday night and becoming more widespread Monday. Strong to severe thunderstorms are possible Monday afternoon and evening, bringing the risk of locally damaging wind gusts and heavy rain. The forecast discussion also highlights breezy to windy conditions on Saturday with low afternoon humidity that could elevate localized fire-weather concerns. Small Craft Advisories are in effect on coastal waters from midday today into Saturday, and much colder air with gusty westerly winds is forecast to move in behind the front on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service Mount Holly.
