Weather

Philadelphia's 18-day stretch of dry weather expected to end Thursday. Here's the forecast.

By Bill Kelly

November 5, 2026 / 12:00 AM EST / CBS Philadelphia

Philadelphia's 18-day stretch of dry weather will come to an end Thursday. The NEXT Weather team is not expecting a complete washout, but scattered showers could interrupt the morning and evening commutes along the I-95 corridor.

More widespread rain chances are expected north and west of Philadelphia, including the Lehigh Valley and Poconos.

Despite the clouds, temperatures will climb into the lower 70s, so a heavy jacket won't be necessary. If you're heading out for lunch, you may even find some dry time between showers. Just don't leave home without that umbrella.

NEXT big weather changes

Friday brings the biggest weather story of the week as a more organized area of rain moves across the Delaware Valley.

Periods of moderate to heavy rain are possible, along with a few thunderstorms late Thursday and the first part of Friday, especially east of I-95. Some locations could pick up 1–2 inches of rain, potentially creating ponding on the roads, slowing travel along I-95 and other major roads. The rain is welcome after our unusually long dry stretch, but the timing could make for a messy Friday commute.

The good news? The system moves out later in the day Friday, allowing sunshine to return just in time for the weekend. However, we'll trade our unusually warm November temperatures for something much more seasonable. Highs fall into the lower to mid-60s Saturday, with upper 50s to lower 60s Sunday. The Poconos and Lehigh Valley will feel even cooler, especially overnight.

Dry weather should continue into early next week, with temperatures gradually recovering.