Light rain is already falling across Philadelphia this morning, with temperatures stuck in the mid-30s. That is just cold enough to make untreated streets and sidewalks slick, and forecasters say a wintry mix of snow, freezing rain and sleet will tangle with the Tuesday morning commute, leaving minor snow accumulations and a light glaze of ice in spots.
Morning Commute Watch
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for parts of the Delaware Valley from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m., warning that less than an inch of snow along with a thin coating of ice could slow the Tuesday drive, especially on bridges and untreated side streets, according to NWS Mount Holly. Pockets of patchy fog may cut visibility early, and many neighborhoods should see the mix flip to plain rain by mid to late morning. If you are heading out, give yourself extra commute time and be cautious on elevated surfaces.
Later Today And This Week
By mid to late morning, most locations should be dealing with rain instead of wintry mix, with afternoon highs in the low 40s. A steadier round of rain moves in again tonight, and a quarter to a half inch of rainfall is possible. A quick warmup follows in the middle of the week, with highs climbing into the 50s on Wednesday and some spots potentially reaching the 60s by Thursday, along with several rounds of showers and a chance for isolated thunderstorms Thursday night. The broader setup, including the sharp temperature swing, is laid out in our March 1 preview, Freezing Fog Slicks Philly Streets.
How To Plan
Take it easy on bridges and overpasses, check SEPTA alerts if you rely on transit, and allow extra stopping distance on wet or icy pavement. For the latest hazard details and official safety guidance, visit NWS Mount Holly and call 511 for current road conditions. If you have outdoor plans, expect wet conditions through tonight before a quick rebound to milder weather by midweek.
