Philadelphia residents, get ready for a blustery and wet Thursday as powerful winds and scattered showers sweep through the region. If you’ve got outdoor plans or a morning commute, expect strong gusts that could knock over trash cans, shake tree limbs, and make driving tricky. This stormy setup won’t last forever, but once it clears out, a noticeably cooler weekend will follow, giving the city a true taste of early spring.
Thursday’s Weather: Strong Winds & Passing Showers
A storm system moving across the Northeast is bringing gusty winds and light rain showers to Philadelphia throughout Thursday. While this won’t be a washout, the wind could make it feel much colder than the thermometer reads.
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Winds Cranking Up: Expect sustained breezes of 15-20 mph, with occasional gusts reaching up to 30 mph. These gusts will be strongest during the afternoon hours, so be extra cautious if you’re out and about. Loose outdoor items, like trash bins or patio furniture, could be tossed around.
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Scattered Showers: While the bulk of the rain will stay light, brief periods of moderate showers are possible. Don’t be surprised if you get caught in a sudden drizzle—umbrellas are a must!
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Mild Temperatures for Now: Thursday will see highs near 52°F (11°C), but with the wind chill, it’ll feel more like the mid-40s. Overnight lows will drop to 34°F (1°C), making for a brisk evening.
Weekend Forecast: Chilly Air Moves In
After Thursday’s windy mess, a cooler air mass will settle in just in time for the weekend. Sunshine will return, but temperatures will take a dip.
- Friday: Mostly sunny but still breezy, with highs near 51°F (11°C) and lows at 38°F (3°C).
- Saturday: Partly cloudy, high of 49°F (9°C), but lows will plunge to 32°F (0°C) overnight.
- Sunday: A mix of clouds and sun, slight chance of an afternoon sprinkle, with highs around 49°F (10°C) and lows near 31°F (-1°C).

How to Stay Safe in Windy Weather
- Secure loose items: If you have outdoor furniture, decorations, or trash bins, bring them in or tie them down—strong gusts can easily send them flying.
- Drive with caution: Gusty winds can make highway driving dangerous, especially on bridges and open roads. Keep both hands on the wheel and stay alert for sudden gusts.
- Watch for falling debris: Tree limbs and unsecured objects can become hazards in high winds. Avoid walking near old trees or construction sites.
- Stay updated: Keep an eye on weather alerts, especially if the forecast shifts toward stronger gusts or heavier rain.
Bottom Line: Windy, Wet, and Then Colder!
Philadelphia will be dealing with strong winds and scattered showers on Thursday, so plan accordingly! Hold onto your hats, watch out for flying debris, and expect a gusty day ahead. Once the winds settle, a chilly but calmer weekend will follow, bringing temperatures down into the 40s. Get ready for a true taste of early spring—just without the warmth