Local
Severe storms threaten Philadelphia region Friday evening as cold front arrives
A severe-weather alert is in effect from 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, with damaging winds and isolated tornadoes possible across the Philadelphia region. The storms will be followed by a sharp temperature drop and a chilly weekend.
A strong cold front is expected to bring severe thunderstorms, damaging winds and a risk of isolated tornadoes to the Philadelphia region late Friday afternoon and evening, prompting a First Alert from 4 to 10 p.m. on Oct. 16.
The day began with scattered showers as a warm front moved through, bringing warmer, more humid air. Temperatures climbed to about 78 degrees by the afternoon, with a break in the clouds before the stronger storms were forecast to arrive.
As of Friday afternoon, severe thunderstorm warnings were in effect until 6:15 p.m. for parts of northern New Jersey and Northampton County, Pennsylvania. The National Weather Service also issued warnings for Berks County. A broader severe thunderstorm watch was set to last until 8 p.m. in Pennsylvania and 10 p.m. in surrounding areas.
The storms are expected to give way to much colder weather. Saturday’s forecast calls for gusty winds, sunshine and a high near 54 degrees. Sunday is expected to be sunny and calmer, with a high around 60, though early-morning temperatures could fall into the 30s, raising the possibility of frost or a freeze in some neighborhoods.
Temperatures are forecast to recover gradually early next week, reaching the 60s and 70s.