Philadelphia Braces for Weekend Snowfall Forecast
Philadelphia is preparing for a significant winter storm forecasted to bring substantial snowfall this weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) projects that the region could receive up to 14 inches of snow from Saturday night through Monday morning. Should these predictions hold true, Philadelphia will report its first double-digit snowfall in a decade.
Snowfall and Ice Concerns
Forecast models indicate the possibility of a foot of snow extending even to the Jersey Shore. Amid this complex weather pattern, a mix of ice and freezing rain on Sunday could complicate conditions. The NWS has highlighted the interaction of polar air moving southward with an intensifying coastal storm as a cause for concern.
Ray Kruzdlo, a hydrologist at the NWS office in Mount Holly, expressed his concerns regarding the Arctic front arriving before the storm. This could lead to below-zero wind chills and temperatures remaining below freezing in Philadelphia for an extended period.
Winter Storm Watch Details
- Watch Timing: From 7 PM Saturday until 1 PM Monday.
- Expected Start: Snow is likely to begin in the early hours of Sunday, with accumulation continuing until early Monday morning.
- Temperature Forecast: Temperatures on Sunday will be significantly cold, ranging from teens to lower 20s.
The Risk of Freezing Rain
On Sunday, there is a possibility of sleet and freezing rain by early afternoon as warmer air moves in from the ocean. This hazardous combination could cause ice accumulation on road surfaces, potentially leading to dangerous travel conditions.
Preparation and Community Response
Utilities are bracing for potential outages. Peco has mentioned they are monitoring the storm developments closely and will maintain crews on standby. The NWS has emphasized the importance of public caution during this winter event, which may lead to disruptions in daily activities.
Historical Context
This impending storm is reminiscent of a notable bust in January 2015 when a predicted significant snowstorm resulted in only a minor accumulation in Philadelphia. Lessons learned from past forecasts have led meteorologists to emphasize the likelihood of an impactful weather event this time.
Residents are urged to stay informed and plan accordingly as Philadelphia braces for this weekend’s snowfall forecast. For more localized weather updates, please visit Filmogaz.com.
