Central Pa. Sees Warmer-Than-Usual Week

Unseasonably mild temperatures and rain expected in the region.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Central Pennsylvania is experiencing an unseasonably warm week, with temperatures running 10 to 20 degrees above normal. This spring-like pattern follows one of the coldest first two weeks of February on record. Rain is expected on Wednesday and again Thursday night into Friday, with total precipitation amounts ranging between half an inch to one inch.

Why it matters

The warmer weather and rain are creating temperature inversions and poor air quality, particularly in the lower Susquehanna Valley. The Harrisburg area is under an Orange Air Quality Alert, meaning the air pollution concentrations may become unhealthy for sensitive groups.

The details

The high today in the Harrisburg area is supposed to be 52, and the highs the rest of the week should be in the upper 40s and low 50s. Low clouds and fog are developing as warmer air moves over the colder, snow-covered ground. Rainfall is expected Wednesday and again Thursday night into Friday, with the highest amounts in northwestern portions of the state.

  • Today's high in Harrisburg is expected to reach 52 degrees.
  • Highs the rest of the week should be in the upper 40s and low 50s.
  • Rain is expected on Wednesday and again Thursday night into Friday.

The players

Harrisburg

The capital city of Pennsylvania, located in the lower Susquehanna Valley.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This unseasonably warm and wet weather pattern is creating air quality issues in the region, highlighting the impact of climate change on local weather patterns.