If you’re heading out early this week, be sure to grab a warm jacket! Philadelphia is set to experience a classic late-winter temperature rollercoaster, with cold mornings warming into mild afternoons, followed by a sudden cooldown later in the week.
The start of the week will bring mostly cloudy skies and a brisk morning chill, but by midday, temperatures will climb into the low 50s, making for a comfortable afternoon. However, don’t let the mild midweek temperatures fool you—cold air will make a comeback by Friday, bringing gusty winds and a significant drop in temperature.
Monday’s Forecast: Cold Morning, Pleasant Afternoon
The week kicks off with mostly cloudy skies and a chilly morning low of 36°F (2°C). For those heading to work or school early, layers will be your best friend. By the afternoon, clouds will begin to clear, allowing temperatures to climb to a pleasant 53°F (12°C), making it an excellent day to be outside.
As the sun sets, expect temperatures to dip back into the mid-30s, creating a crisp and chilly night. If you have evening plans, you’ll want to bring a jacket to stay comfortable.
How Monday’s Weather Will Affect Your Day:
- Morning: Cold and cloudy—dress warmly before heading out.
- Afternoon: Milder temperatures and sunshine make it a great day for outdoor activities.
- Evening: Expect a cool night, so bring a jacket if you’re staying out late.
The Week Ahead: Warm Midweek, But a Sharp Temperature Drop Looms
While Monday and Tuesday will start off chilly, by Wednesday and Thursday, milder air will settle in, bringing temperatures close to 60°F. But don’t get too comfortable—the end of the week will see a significant cool down, along with gusty winds and a possible shower or two.
- Tuesday, February 25: Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of rain. High of 56°F (14°C), cooling to 33°F (0°C) at night.
- Wednesday, February 26: Mild and breezy with sunshine, high of 56°F (13°C), low of 40°F (4°C).
- Thursday, February 27: Cloudy with scattered showers. High of 58°F (14°C), low of 36°F (2°C).
- Friday, February 28: A noticeable cool down, with gusty winds and a high of just 49°F (10°C). Overnight low drops to 27°F (-3°C).
- Saturday, March 1: Cool but dry, with sun and clouds. High of 44°F (7°C), low of 32°F (0°C).
What’s Causing These Big Temperature Swings?
Philadelphia’s shifting weather this week is due to a series of passing weather systems. A brief warm-up midweek is thanks to a southerly breeze bringing in milder air. However, by Friday, a cold front will move in, bringing strong winds and a drop in temperatures.
This back-and-forth pattern is typical of late February, as winter begins to loosen its grip but refuses to fully give way to spring.
How to Make the Most of This Week’s Weather:
- Layer up – Mornings will start off cold, but afternoons will warm up, making layers the best option for staying comfortable.
- Plan outdoor activities for midweek – Wednesday and Thursday will be the warmest days, so take advantage of the sunshine before Friday’s cooldown.
- Prepare for gusty winds on Friday – With dropping temperatures and stronger winds, Friday will feel much colder than earlier in the week.
- Watch for rain on Tuesday and Thursday – Scattered showers could dampen plans, so keep an umbrella handy.
Looking Ahead: Will the Warm Weather Stick Around?
While the mild midweek temperatures may feel like a hint of spring, Philadelphia’s weather is not quite ready to settle into warmth just yet. The sharp cool down on Friday suggests that winter still has a bit more to offer before we officially transition into spring.
