Philadelphia weather service tracks potential nor'easter for Thursday
A cold front brings strong gusts on Monday, while a coastal storm system threatens heavy rain and possible snow for the region by the weekend.
By Ricardo Brooks ·
Drivers in the Philadelphia region face gusts of 30 to 35 mph on Monday as a cold front sweeps through the area. The wind speed is strong enough to strip remaining leaves from trees, scattering them across roads and sidewalks. High pressure will begin to build in by Monday evening, causing the winds to ease before the next major weather event arrives.
Meteorologists are now focusing on a coastal storm system that could develop into a nor'easter between Thursday and Friday night. Rain is the primary concern for Philadelphia and the surrounding area, with the potential for soaking rainfall depending on the storm's exact track. While gusty winds and coastal flooding are possible, officials note that it is too early to determine the specific intensity of those impacts.
The temperature drop associated with the strengthening storm may allow precipitation to change to snow in higher elevations. The Poconos area along the I-80 corridor currently holds the best chance for snowfall. However, the air mass ahead of the system remains relatively mild, making the development of snow highly dependent on how much cold air the storm can pull in. Consequently, snowfall amounts and accumulation levels remain uncertain.
Forecasters are confident that Philadelphia itself will receive cold rain rather than snow. The storm's track will dictate the distribution of precipitation and the location of the strongest winds. A path farther offshore could result in less rain, while a track closer to the region would increase rain, wind, and coastal flooding risks.
Colder air is expected to arrive by Friday, bringing a significantly lower feel to the region for the upcoming weekend. The seven-day forecast shows highs in the 60s Fahrenheit for Monday through Wednesday. Rain is likely on Thursday with a high of 59 degrees, while Friday may bring rain or flakes to the north with a high of 48 degrees. Temperatures will continue to drop, with a high of 46 degrees on Saturday and 51 degrees on Sunday.
