At a Glance
- Light snow will brush southeastern Pennsylvania starting around 7 a.m. in the Lehigh Valley and 8 a.m. in Philadelphia.
- One to two inches could pile up in Berks County, the Lehigh Valley, and Pennsylvania’s western suburbs.
- South Jersey and Delaware will see flakes change to rain with little to no accumulation.
- Why it matters: Commuters should plan for slick spots on untreated roads before the system exits by 2 p.m.
A fast-moving winter system will bring the season’s first measurable snow to parts of the Philadelphia region on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. While the storm lacks the strength for a major event, timing during the morning hours could create travel headaches before warmer air changes flakes to rain along the coast.
Snow Arrives Before Noon
The weak disturbance will reach the Lehigh Valley shortly after sunrise, according to News Of Philadelphia. By 8 a.m., snow will spread into Philadelphia and immediate suburbs.
- 7 a.m. – First flakes in the Lehigh Valley
- 8 a.m. – Snow begins in Philadelphia
- 2 p.m. – Precipitation ends region-wide
Where the Snow Will Stick
Elevation and distance from the ocean will determine how much, if any, snow survives on the ground.
Southeastern Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia: Dusting on grass, cars, and elevated surfaces
- Western suburbs: One to two inches possible
- Berks County: One to two inches
- Lehigh Valley: One to two inches
South Jersey & Delaware
- Flakes early, then rain
- Little to no accumulation expected
- Roads should stay mainly wet
What to Expect on the Roads
Temperatures are forecast to hover near or slightly above freezing in the city, so treated highways will likely remain wet rather than white. Side streets, bridges, and untreated parking lots could become slick for a few hours during the heaviest snowfall between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
- Allow extra travel time
- Keep a safe distance from plows and salt trucks
- Clear vehicle roofs and windshields to avoid flying snow
System Exits by Mid-Afternoon
The weak storm will zip off the coast by 2 p.m., ending all precipitation. Clouds should break for some afternoon sunshine, helping any lingering snow melt quickly on pavement.
Stay Updated on the Go
News Of Philadelphia urges residents to download the News Of Philadelphia app and follow the News Of Philadelphia First Alert Weather team for real-time radar, road conditions, and updated snow totals as they come in.
Key Takeaways
- Snow starts between 7-8 a.m. and ends by 2 p.m.
- One to two inches are likely north and west of Philadelphia
- Coastal areas flip to rain with no accumulation
- Morning commuters face the highest impact
