Typically a white Christmas is not something we see here in Philadelphia or much of the Delaware Valley. The exception to this is the northern edge of the Lehigh Valley in the Poconos, which obviously has a much higher chance of snow during the winter season.
To meet the National Weather Service’s definition of a white Christmas, there must be at least an inch of snow on the ground. Even a quick coat or trace doesn’t technically count.
Looking ahead:
Winter officially starts on Saturday with the first official full winter day on Sunday. This follows some really cold air filters this weekend. Highs for Sunday may not get above 20.
But as we get closer to Christmas, we’re seeing temperatures rise quite a bit. In fact, on Christmas Eve it looks like we will see mixed skies and high temperatures thawing in the upper 30s to near 40 degrees.
Although Christmas itself is still a week away, temperatures appear to be even more moderate; Christmas can last well into the 40s in much of the area. And yes, we do see a few weak systems pass through, and the timing may change, but right now even a weak front has greater potential to bring a few sprinkles and rain instead of flurries or snow.
We’ll continue to keep an eye on next week, but keep in mind that the chances of a white Christmas in Philadelphia are extremely low, if not close to zero.
So when was the last time Philly saw a white Christmas? In 2009, 8 inches of snow remained on the ground after a 24-inch snowfall on December 19. See more Christmas weather history here.
