Updated on: October 8, 2024 2:40 pm GMT
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Residents in Philadelphia should prepare for a mix of rain and clearer skies this weekend, as a cold front approaches the region. The National Weather Service has issued guidance for scattered showers on Saturday, with a high of 76 degrees expected throughout the day.
Weekend Weather Forecast
The rain will begin in the afternoon, driven by a cold front moving in from the west. This front is anticipated to bring muggy conditions to the area, resulting in below-average daytime temperatures in the mid-70s. As the front passes through, it is likely that Philadelphia will experience intermittent showers and even thunderstorms.
According to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tyler Roys, residents should brace themselves for potential “drenching downpours” during the storm. AccuWeather forecasts predict that between 1 to 2 inches of rain may accumulate across Eastern Pennsylvania over a 12-hour period, starting after 2 p.m. on Saturday. Flash flood warnings may be issued depending on the intensity of rainfall.
Post-Storm Conditions
As the storm subsides, Philadelphians can expect a refreshing change in weather. Saturday night will bring cooler and drier air into the region, with overnight lows dipping between 52-55 degrees in the city and even cooler readings in surrounding areas like Lehigh Valley and South Jersey.
Sunday will mark a transition to sunny conditions, providing a welcome respite from the weekend storms. Highs are expected to reach only the low 70s in Philadelphia, with areas further away from the city experiencing even colder temperatures in the upper 60s.
A Taste of Fall
This weather shift signals a change in the upcoming forecast, reminiscent of early autumn. Over the next several days, temperatures are projected to gradually rise again, with highs expected to reach the 80s by Tuesday. As summer winds down, the region will experience pleasant early fall weather, with cooler nights and lower humidity levels.
Residents should take note that the autumnal equinox is less than two weeks away, occurring on September 22. This will be a significant marker as daylight hours will start to shorten, leading to darker evenings. The clock change for daylight saving time will follow on November 3, further altering daylight patterns.
Long-Term Weather Outlook
After the brief bout of unsettled weather, a stretch of sunny skies is anticipated to last through the following weekend. The National Weather Service indicates that there’s potential for daily highs over the next few days to reach the mid-to-upper 80s, with cooler overnight temperatures lingering in the 50s and 60s.
Looking further into September, meteorologists are continuing to monitor activities in the Atlantic. Recently, hurricane forecasting experts have noted a lull in tropical storm activity and adjusted their predictions for the season. Initially forecasting 20 named storms, experts have since lowered the expectations slightly but maintain that the season still presents a risk for potential hurricanes.
Conclusion
This Saturday, bad weather is coming to Philadelphia, so people should stay updated and get ready. The cool and nice fall weather is on its way, which means there will be great days to enjoy outside. It’s a perfect chance to have fun outdoors before autumn fully arrives!