Philadelphia is getting one more mostly pleasant summer Saturday before Mother Nature flips the script early next week. The city woke up to mostly cloudy, muggy skies this morning with temperatures in the upper 60s, but sunshine is expected to break through and push the afternoon high to about 85°F. Light east-northeast winds will keep things calm, making it an easy day for parks, patios and a stroll along the Schuylkill before the wetter pattern moves in.
Afternoon Outlook
Through the afternoon, look for bright, mostly sunny skies with highs near 85°F and a gentle east-northeast breeze around 0 to 10 mph. Dew points will sit lower than they did during July's big heat wave, so it should feel noticeably more comfortable than those recent scorchers. Tonight, temperatures dip into the low 60s under mostly clear skies.
At the Shore and On the Water
If you are thinking about a Jersey Shore run, the weather will cooperate but the ocean deserves some respect. Area beach forecasts call for a MODERATE risk of dangerous rip currents today and Sunday, with breaking waves around 2 to 3 feet and multiple swell groups moving through the surf zone. If you go in the water, stick to guarded beaches, pay attention to the flags and skip solo swims, since conditions could make rescues tougher. See the National Weather Service beach forecast for details.
Early-Week Storms
Showers and thunderstorms return Monday afternoon, July 27, with the best chances after about 2 p.m. and a high near 88°F. The chance of precipitation sits around 60 percent. On Tuesday, July 28, storm coverage looks even higher, with heavy rain and some strong to severe thunderstorms possible as humidity ramps up and a front sweeps through the region. According to the National Weather Service Mount Holly, parts of the area could see brief heavy downpours or damaging wind gusts that may tangle evening commutes and disrupt outdoor events.
Plan Ahead
For Monday and Tuesday, a light rain jacket is a smart addition to the bag, and it would not hurt to build in extra time for SEPTA rides or highway trips in case storms flare up. If you have outdoor plans, especially on Tuesday, think about moving them inside or lining up a backup. And if your plans involve the shore, keep an eye on updated forecasts, listen to lifeguards and follow flag warnings.
