Hey Philadelphia, looks like we’re in for a bit of a soggy weekend! Starting Friday afternoon, showers and thunderstorms are rolling in, and they’ll stick around through Saturday. If you’ve got plans, you’ll want to be ready for rain, some thunder, and possibly a few gusty winds. Let’s break it down so you can stay dry and safe.
What to Expect:
Rain, Rain, and More Rain
The wet weather starts Friday afternoon, with light rain trickling in first, but by Friday evening, things will really pick up. We’re talking heavy showers that will continue into Saturday. It’s not going to rain all day long, but if you’re out and about, it’ll definitely be wet, especially during the evening. Bring an umbrella or a raincoat—you’ll need it.
Thunderstorms Are in the Mix
As if the rain wasn’t enough, there’s also a chance of thunderstorms. These storms will bring lightning, strong winds, and some intense rain. While not everyone in Philly will see severe storms, there’s a chance things could get a bit wild Friday evening. If you’ve got plans to be outside, it’s better to be prepared—thunderstorms could make things a little chaotic.
Wind Gusts May Shake Things Up
Along with the rain, there will be wind gusts up to 30 mph. While it’s not a full-on windstorm, it’s enough to make the rain feel even colder and to toss things around outside. If you’ve got outdoor furniture or plants, make sure they’re secured so they don’t end up somewhere they shouldn’t be.
Flooding Is a Possibility
With all that rain, there’s a chance of localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas or places where the streets don’t drain well. If you live near a river or stream, keep an eye out for rising water levels. Also, be extra careful driving through areas where flooding could occur. Never drive through flooded streets—it’s just not worth the risk.
How to Prepare:
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Grab Your Umbrella: If you’re planning to be out, make sure you have rain gear. A sturdy umbrella will keep you dry, and a raincoat will protect you from getting soaked. Trust me, you won’t want to get caught without one of these.
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Be Careful on the Roads: Wet roads can be slippery, so slow down and give yourself extra time to get where you’re going. If you see standing water or flooded areas, don’t risk it—turn around and find an alternate route. Flash floods can happen fast, so always err on the side of caution.
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Dress for the Weather: A waterproof jacket is a must. If you’re headed out, make sure to wear something that’ll keep you dry and warm. Waterproof shoes or boots are also a good idea, especially if you’re going to be walking through puddles or wet streets.
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Secure Outdoor Items: The wind will be gusty, so make sure anything lightweight or loose outside is brought inside or tied down. Patio furniture, garbage cans, and anything else that could get blown away should be put out of harm’s way.
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Stay Informed: Weather can change quickly, so keep checking your phone or the local news for updates. If there’s a severe storm warning, you’ll want to know about it right away so you can adjust your plans. It’s always better to be over-prepared than caught off guard!
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Limit Outdoor Activities During Storms: Thunderstorms can be dangerous, so if you hear thunder or see lightning, head inside. If you’re out and about, find a safe place to wait it out. You don’t want to be standing near tall trees or anything that could attract lightning. It’s always better to be cautious.
When Will the Worst Weather Hit?
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Friday Afternoon and Evening: Rain will start trickling in during the afternoon, but it’ll really pick up between 4 PM and 8 PM. That’s when we’ll see the heaviest rain and thunderstorms. If you’re out during that time, make sure you’re prepared for heavy downpours, gusty winds, and possible lightning.
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Saturday: The rain will continue into Saturday, though it should lighten up in the morning. But don’t get too comfy just yet—the thunderstorms will likely return in the afternoon. So, keep an umbrella on hand and be ready for more wet conditions.
This weekend’s weather is looking a bit stormy, but with a little planning, you can stay dry and safe. From rain and thunderstorms to wind gusts and the risk of flooding, it’s going to be a bit of a messy couple of days. If you’ve got to head out, just make sure you’re dressed for the weather and prepared for whatever comes your way.
