Flash Freeze Possible Friday Afternoon


An ARCTIC BLAST will cause major issues Friday afternoon into Friday evening. This storm will impact millions across the US towards the end of the week. We will see 1-2″ of rain before a huge drop in temps Friday afternoon. Around lunchtime we will see temps in the upper 50s but as this cold front moves across the area rain will change to snow for some and any standing water will freeze. We will also see very high winds on Friday afternoon.

TIMING:
We will see rain move in Thursday evening, it will be heavy at times in the overnight hours into Friday morning. That is when it will get wild. After 1pm we will see heavy rain that will change over to some backend snow as the cold front pushes through. While yes snow is possible the main concern is a FLASH FREEZE. Snow showers should wrap up by 8pm. This will set up for the coldest Christmas eve and day in over 30 years.

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How Much Snow:

The models have shown the chance of snow on the back end. A general C-1″ is possible for areas to the west of Philly while the Philly Metro and i95 corridor will see generally coating. PLEASE remember this is a complex storm and a lot of variables that could change.

FLASH FREEZE:
A flash freeze is as it sounds. Once temperatures drop below 32°F, there is a chance for any liquid water to quickly become ice. That ice can cause major accidents on roadways in an instant. Please avoid all travel Friday afternoon if possible.

The GFS model forecasting temps in the mid 50s for the i95 corridor at 1pm on Friday.
Forecasted temps at 7pm Friday as the Flash Freeze pushes across the area.
Temps 1am on Christmas Eve


Here are some tips on how to prepare and avoid ice:

  1. Know the forecast. Understand where the temperatures will be before you head out and if there is a risk for ice.
  2. Make sure you have proper tires. While a total sheet of black ice can make any traction nearly impossible, winter tires are better equipped to handle ice.
  3. Watch for “wet” roads. When driving in the winter, understand that what looks like a wet road could be ice.
  4. Know that bridges and overpasses freeze before other surfaces.

Our team is monitoring this system and will bring you the latest updates later this evening. Please avoid all travel Friday afternoon.