Philadelphia likely won’t see a white Christmas, but snow is forecasted for Friday.

Philadelphia is bracing for winter weather as a winter storm watch has been issued for eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The National Weather Service announced that the watch will take effect from Friday afternoon, continuing through Saturday morning.

Meteorologists express a high level of confidence—approaching 100%—that the majority of the Philadelphia area will experience some form of winter precipitation starting Friday and continuing into the evening. However, the specifics regarding the type, amount, and timing of the precipitation remain unclear at this point.

The projected snowfall for Philadelphia ranges from 1 to 4 inches, with light precipitation expected to persist into Saturday morning. Northern Delaware, as well as southern New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania, may see totals between 1 and 3 inches, while eastern Pennsylvania and much of New Jersey could receive between 4 to 7 inches. Conditions may vary significantly across the region, with some areas likely to experience snow, sleet, freezing rain, or even plain rain, depending on temperature fluctuations and timing.

Despite the impending storm, Philadelphians are unlikely to wake up to a white Christmas. Following a brief period of sunshine and temperatures reaching into the 40s on Wednesday, forecasts indicate that Christmas Day may feature above-average temperatures, ranging in the mid-40s, with a possibility of light showers in the morning. The National Weather Service has characterized the weather conditions for Christmas as not ideal but also not particularly bad for late December.

This upcoming winter weather event could mark the second measurable snowfall of the season for Philadelphia. The earlier snowstorm that swept through the region on December 14 deposited an average of 4.2 inches of snow at Philadelphia International Airport, with neighboring communities in Bucks and Chester Counties accumulating over 8 inches in some locations.

Travelers planning to venture out on Friday evening should prepare for potentially hazardous road conditions, as snow and ice could impact travel plans. Additionally, for those flying out of Philadelphia International Airport, it is advisable to monitor flight schedules for any delays or cancellations that may occur due to the winter weather.

As the region approaches the holiday, residents can stay informed and updated via various channels, including the National Weather Service and other local news outlets.

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