Storms in Philadelphia region Wednesday could bring damaging winds, downpours, isolated tornadoes
Be ready for some changes as a line of showers and strong to severe thunderstorms will likely blanket the Philadelphia region today. Between about 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. is the greatest risk time for the storms. Areas northwest of the city may see a shower earlier, but the greatest threat for anything strong is later on.
Umbrellas would be needed, and we'd urge you to be weather-aware if you are going to be out traveling during that time. Also, charge your devices, as power outages are possible.
The storms will be weakening a bit as they approach our area, but the threat for damaging straight-line winds between 60-70 mph — and large hail — will be especially notable in areas to the west of Philadelphia.
There is also a risk of an isolated tornado.
Before storms arrive, we'll have a warm day that will likely set a new record high. Today's record high is just 74 degrees, which looks like it will fall easily with a forecast high of 78. There will be clouds, but any sun that emerges will destabilize the atmosphere as this line of gusty storms approaches.
The much cooler marine air should keep strong storms from impacting the shore points.
NEXT big weather changes
We have a sharp turn to colder air, with a front causing temperatures to drop 20-30 degrees between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday afternoon. The front will trigger scattered severe storms and much of the area is under a Level 2 severe risk.
The cold air arriving with the front may be cold enough for rain changing to a wintry mix or snow showers, but no accumulation is expected.
The shocking drop in temperature continues, with Friday struggling to reach 50.
After Wednesday, 70-degree temperatures aren't in the immediate forecast for the next week.
Here's your 7-day forecast:
Wednesday: NEXT Weather Alert for p.m. storms. High 77, low 53.
Thursday: Rain, colder. High 63, low 59.
Friday: Colder. High 52, low 28.
Saturday: Partly sunny. High 55, low 45.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy. High 59, low 37.
Monday: Rain likely. High 50, low 45.
Tuesday: Showers. High 40, low 32.