Arctic Blast to Bring Snow Showers, Bitter Cold to Philadelphia Region

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An Arctic cold front is set to blast through the Philadelphia region overnight Friday into Saturday, bringing snow showers and squalls that could lead to quick accumulations and very low visibility for drivers. Temperatures are expected to plunge, with highs struggling to reach the teens and wind chills potentially approaching 15 below zero, raising concerns about frostbite.

Why it matters

The bitterly cold weather this weekend could pose significant risks to public safety, with the potential for dangerous wind chills and icy road conditions. Residents will need to take precautions to stay safe and warm as the region experiences its coldest temperatures of the winter so far.

The details

The snow showers and squalls are expected to occur between 6 p.m. Friday and 4 a.m. Saturday, with less than an inch of accumulation expected. However, the low visibility and potential for quick accumulation could still make travel hazardous. Temperatures are forecast to drop to the single digits on Saturday and Sunday, with wind gusts up to 40 mph, leading to wind chills as low as 15 below zero near the city. These dangerously cold conditions could lead to frostbite developing within 30 minutes of exposure.

• The snow showers and squalls are expected between 6 p.m. Friday and 4 a.m. Saturday.
• Temperatures are forecast to drop to the single digits on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates on the expected snowfall and temperature drops throughout the weekend.