Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York Brace for Brutal Early-Week Cold as Temperatures Plunge Into the Teens
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA — The first major early-December cold blast is set to grip much of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast early this week, with feels-like temperatures dropping into the teens across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York by Tuesday morning.
Meteorologists are warning residents to prepare for dangerously cold wind chills as Arctic air moves through the region, marking one of the coldest starts to December in recent years.
Feels-Like Temperatures Near 10–15 Degrees Across the Region
According to NBC10’s First Alert Weather, Tuesday morning wind chills will range between 6°F and 15°F for much of southeastern Pennsylvania and central New Jersey, with Philadelphia expected to feel around 13°F at 7 a.m. Nearby communities such as Wilmington, Delaware (11°F) and Allentown (8°F) will also experience biting cold.
Along the New Jersey coast, Atlantic City could feel around 15°F, while Barnegat Light may drop to a wind chill of 23°F — the warmest in the region, thanks to the moderating coastal influence. Meanwhile, parts of New York City and northern New Jersey, including Newark (10°F) and Clifton (11°F), will start the day feeling frigid.
Cold Comparable to Chicago’s Deep-Winter Chill
Forecasters say the incoming chill rivals what Chicago typically experiences in midwinter, making it especially harsh for early December along the East Coast. The Arctic air mass, driven by strong northwesterly winds, will keep temperatures well below average for several days.
“This is the kind of cold that bites through layers,” meteorologists warned, urging commuters to wear thermal protection and limit time outdoors early Tuesday.
Morning Commute Impact and Safety Tips
Drivers are being advised to watch for black ice on untreated roads and bridges, particularly in suburban and rural areas where overnight lows will dip into the upper teens. Wind gusts up to 20–25 mph could also make it feel even colder during the morning rush hour.
Officials are reminding residents to check on elderly neighbors and pets, as overnight lows and wind chills could be dangerous for prolonged exposure.
Cold to Linger Before Slight Midweek Rebound
The bitter cold will persist through Tuesday afternoon, with highs struggling to break the low 30s across the tri-state area. A brief warming trend is expected by Wednesday and Thursday, though temperatures will remain below normal for early December.
Meteorologists note that another cold surge could return late in the week as the Arctic pattern strengthens.
Stay tuned to NapervilleLocal.com for continued coverage of this developing cold pattern and updates on potential winter weather impacts across the East Coast.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.