UPDATE: A powerful winter storm is set to impact the Philadelphia area this weekend, with forecasters predicting significant wind chills and a possible bomb cyclone forming off the Southeastern coast. Temperatures are expected to plunge to near 0°F on Friday and Saturday mornings, with dangerous wind chills reaching as low as -10°F, raising concerns for residents and travelers alike.
Authorities report that while Philadelphia may escape heavy snowfall, the combination of strong onshore gales and a full moon could lead to severe coastal impacts in New Jersey and Delaware. The National Weather Service warns that gusts could reach up to 40 mph along the shores, heightening the risk of coastal flooding and dangerous beach conditions.
Meteorologist Mike Silva from the National Weather Service stated, “Even though there might not be much or any snow in Philly, it’s going to be cold, and we’re still going to have the wind impacts.” The forecast models indicate a 50% chance that Philly could see some measurable snow, with totals potentially reaching 0.1 inches by Saturday night into Sunday. However, heavy accumulations are more likely along the coast.
As this storm develops, it is expected to rapidly intensify, potentially meeting the technical criteria for a bomb cyclone, defined as a drop in central barometric pressure of 0.7 inches within a 24-hour period. This phenomenon is particularly common in the western Atlantic near the Gulf Stream, where warm ocean waters collide with frigid Arctic air.
AccuWeather’s Tom Kines cautioned that slight shifts in the storm’s path could dramatically alter the expected outcomes. “It wouldn’t take much of a jog west to really mess up the forecast,” he said. As conditions evolve, residents are urged to stay tuned for updates.
After this weekend’s cold snap, temperatures are forecast to slightly rebound next week, with highs around freezing between Monday and Thursday, offering some relief from the Arctic air. However, the impact of the extensive snow cover—totaling over 9 inches from a previous storm—will continue to affect temperatures, leaving residents to brace for a prolonged winter chill.
Stay alert for further updates as this weather event unfolds, and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions both inland and along the coast.
