Frost advisories issued as Philadelphia experiences coldest weather in six months.
Frost advisories have been issued for Friday morning across various regions surrounding Philadelphia, signifying the arrival of the season’s coldest temperatures in over six months. The National Weather Service has placed areas on both sides of the Delaware River under this advisory, although the urban centers of Philadelphia and parts of Delaware County remain excluded from these warnings.
Despite this exclusion, it is anticipated that cooler areas within the city and surrounding areas may still experience light frosty conditions, particularly in the early morning hours. Meteorologists from the National Weather Service have indicated that the atmospheric conditions, which include clear skies, temperatures dipping into the 30s, and light winds, may lead to frost formation across the region through the weekend.
According to established procedures, the National Weather Service will continue to issue frost advisories until the growing season officially ends, which is determined by the first instance of temperatures plummeting to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or less in any given area. Historically, the first occurrence of freezing temperatures in Philadelphia is expected around mid-November, but frost can appear even when temperatures hover just above freezing.
Air temperatures are generally measured at an altitude of six feet, but surface readings can be significantly lower, particularly during calm weather when colder air remains close to the ground. While winds on Friday morning are not expected to be entirely calm, they are forecasted to be light enough to create favorable conditions for frost development.
Moving into next week, temperatures in the Philadelphia area are projected to remain below seasonal averages, with daytime highs primarily in the 50s and nighttime lows ranging from 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Notably, the extended weather outlook indicates a continued absence of significant precipitation. The Philadelphia International Airport has recorded only 0.81 inches of rainfall this month, a stark contrast to the normal precipitation levels, representing less than one-third of what is typically expected.
Currently, much of the region is classified under “moderate drought” conditions, while some areas are noted as “abnormally dry,” as per the latest report from the U.S. Drought Monitor. However, potential changes in weather patterns may emerge mid-next week, as advanced weather models suggest the possibility of more active weather systems.
This weekend presents an excellent opportunity for outdoor activities, as the fall foliage season is approaching its peak, showcasing vibrant colors across the landscape.
