Arctic Blast to Hit Philadelphia Region with Record Cold and Snow

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — A mix of snow, rain, and bitter cold is set to grip the Philadelphia region this weekend, with an Arctic blast bringing the coldest temperatures in years early next week. The NBC10 First Alert Weather Team is tracking the system, which could impact travel, outdoor events, and even the Philadelphia Eagles‘ playoff game.

Saturday afternoon will see a chilly light rain move in, potentially starting as snowflakes in the Lehigh Valley before transitioning to rain. Rainfall totals are expected to be minimal, with most areas receiving around a tenth of an inch. “It might start as snow, but it’ll quickly turn to rain with little to no accumulation,” said meteorologist Bill Henley.

Sunday’s forecast remains uncertain, with a system offshore possibly bringing light snow in the afternoon. “It’s a wildcard,” Henley said. “If it happens, the shore could see about an inch, with just a dusting closer to Philly — maybe just enough to keep the Eagles’ game interesting.” The Philadelphia Eagles are scheduled to face the Los Angeles Rams in a divisional round playoff game Sunday afternoon.

The real story begins Monday, as an Arctic blast sweeps in, bringing the coldest air the region has experienced in years. Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be blustery, with highs struggling to reach the mid-20s and wind chills dipping into the lower teens. By Tuesday morning, temperatures throughout the region will feel well below freezing, with lows dropping into the single digits and highs barely reaching 18 degrees.

This prolonged cold snap, the region’s coldest since Christmas Eve 2022, poses risks such as frozen pipes and dangerous wind chills. “This is the kind of cold that can freeze pipes, so it’s wise to prepare now if that’s been an issue for you before,” Henley advised. The Surflight Theater in New Jersey recently suffered thousands of dollars in damage after pipes froze and burst just before Christmas.

Residents are urged to take precautions, including insulating pipes, keeping faucets dripping, and maintaining indoor heat. The NBC10 First Alert Weather Team will continue to provide updates on the evolving forecast, ensuring the region stays prepared for the challenging conditions ahead.