Arctic Blast: A Frigid Forecast for South-Central Pennsylvania
Clear Skies Tonight
As we transition into the evening hours, expect mainly clear skies across south-central Pennsylvania. With high pressure moving eastward, temperatures will dip to the lower 30s. While the evening will feel relatively mild, keep an eye out for the potential hazard of patchy black ice. Recent melting snow could lead to slick spots, especially in shaded areas.
The Arrival of the Arctic Front
The real story starts tomorrow, as an Arctic front is set to sweep through the region. This arrival will mark a dramatic shift in temperatures, ushering in a frigid air mass. By Thursday night, we could see lows plummeting into the upper teens, inching ever closer to the record of 12 degrees set back in December 1926. It’s worth noting that this type of drop is significant, particularly since average temperatures for early December typically hover around 30 degrees.
Impending Chill for Friday
Friday is shaping up to be notably cold, with daytime highs struggling to break into the 20s in some areas. Early morning temperatures may challenge historical lows, making this day one to bundle up. Wind chill factors will further exacerbate these cold conditions, pushing feels-like temperatures down into the teens.
Weekend Weather
As we move into the weekend, conditions will remain predominantly cold and dry. Expect highs in the upper 30s, which, while slightly warmer than Friday, will still be around 10 degrees below the seasonal average. Skies will likely be partly to mostly cloudy, providing a stark contrast to the bright conditions we’re experiencing this evening.
Potential Snow Next Week
Looking ahead, next week seems to carry the continuation of this unseasonably cold weather. Temperatures are expected to hover in the 30s, with the possibility of a few weather disturbances. A series of clippers could bring sporadic snow showers by Tuesday into Wednesday, with an additional chance for rain or snow on Thursday.
Special Events Amid the Chill
If you plan on attending the Christmas Spirit Light Show at Penn Medicine Park, rest assured that clear skies are anticipated for the duration of the event this evening, which runs until 9 PM. However, be cautious of colder temperatures as the night progresses.
Monitoring the Situation
Weather enthusiasts and residents alike should stay updated on changing conditions as we approach the weekend. Following the cold front’s passage, a slight chance of snow flurries could appear late Thursday into Friday, although significant accumulations are not expected. Stay warm and stay informed!