Philadelphia, PA – A fresh wave of bitter cold is gripping Philadelphia this week as a surge of Arctic air sweeps into the region, raising concerns about the return of weekend snow along the I-95 corridor.
After a sharp temperature plunge, meteorologists warn that yet another round of even colder air will settle over the Northeast by Saturday and Sunday, setting the stage for potentially hazardous conditions.
Arctic Blast Deepens Across the Region
According to FOX Weather, the current pattern represents a powerful “Arctic blast”, with a second surge of extreme cold expected to arrive as the weekend approaches. Temperatures across Pennsylvania plummeted early Monday, delivering some of the coldest wind chills in the country.
One of the most frigid locations was Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, where the wind chill dipped to –18°F on December 9—placing it among the top five coldest spots nationwide on that date.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia recorded an approximately 10-degree drop in temperature over the past 24 hours. Although a brief midweek warm-up is possible by Wednesday, forecasters emphasize that the deep freeze will intensify again as the weekend approaches.
New Storm System Expected to Arrive Sunday
A developing storm system is forecast to move into the region by Sunday morning, bringing a mix of rain and snow showers. Daytime temperatures are expected to rise into the upper 30s, but will tumble into the upper teens by Sunday night.
That rapid drop means any lingering precipitation has the potential to freeze instantly on untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges, creating dangerous travel conditions.
Snow Outlook: Polar Vortex May Shape Weekend Weather
Forecast models continue monitoring the influence of the polar vortex, a sprawling low-pressure zone capable of steering extreme cold deep into the Northeastern U.S. This interaction introduces what forecasters call “several pieces to the puzzle,” making precise snowfall predictions dependent on how incoming moisture meets the intensifying Arctic air.
Early model signals show:
- Light snow possible across most of Pennsylvania and New Jersey
- Moderate accumulations in northern and higher-elevation areas
- Extreme cold likely keeping nearly all precipitation as snow in elevated regions
Philadelphia’s preliminary weekend forecast:
- Saturday (12/13): Mostly cloudy, highs in the low 40s, lows near 28°
- Sunday (12/14): Rain/snow mix, morning showers, highs in the upper 30s, lows in the upper teens
Though snowfall totals remain uncertain, confidence is increasing that any precipitation will coincide with another strong drop below freezing — boosting the chance of slick, icy travel conditions stretching from Sunday evening into Monday morning.
Back-to-Back Arctic Blasts Heighten Hazards
Two consecutive waves of Arctic air dramatically increase the likelihood that weekend precipitation falls as snow rather than rain. The well-below-average temperatures also raise risks such as:
- Hazardous travel conditions
- Rapid freeze-over on exposed and untreated surfaces
- High strain on heating systems
- Elevated danger for vulnerable and exposed populations
Even a light dusting can become a problem when combined with dangerously cold air — especially across Philadelphia, South Jersey, and the surrounding I-95 corridor.
What’s Next?
Meteorologists expect clearer snowfall projections by Thursday night, once the polar vortex–driven pattern becomes more defined. Officials urge residents throughout Philadelphia, South Jersey, and the broader Mid-Atlantic region to monitor updated forecasts regularly, especially as temperatures continue their downward slide.
What do you think, Philadelphia?
How are you preparing for the upcoming Arctic blast and possible weekend snow? Share your thoughts, experiences, or local updates in the comments below!
