2025 Winter Forecast: Snow Predictions for Philadelphia, New Jersey, Delaware

Philadelphia is entering the 2025 winter season amid a snow shortage, having experienced four consecutive years of below-average snowfall. However, this year holds promise for those eager for winter weather. Forecasts indicate that this winter will see more snow than five of the past six years.

Current Climate Patterns

The equatorial Pacific’s water temperatures are currently below average, suggesting a weak La Niña phenomenon that is expected to persist throughout the winter. Historically, weak La Niña years have linked to lower snowfall amounts, with eighty percent of these winters resulting in below-average precipitation in the mid-Atlantic region.

Comparison to Past Winters

The climatic conditions this year resemble those observed in the winter of 2016-2017 when Philadelphia received around 15 inches of snow. Current projections suggest that a similar scenario could unfold this year, influenced by the main jet stream that is likely to keep the core of cold air concentrated in the northern Plains and Great Lakes. This creates a battleground of contrasting air masses across the region.

Expected Storm Tracks

• Clipper Systems: Fast-moving systems that primarily send moisture northward while introducing brief periods of mild air to Philadelphia.
• Bigger Storms: Storms originating from the Tennessee Valley that move up through the coastal plains of the mid-Atlantic. Initial precipitation may start as snow but will likely transition to a wintry mix or rain.

While one or two of these storms could develop into nor’easters, meteorologists do not predict any major snowstorms for Philadelphia this winter. Instead, ski resorts in New England are expected to reap the benefits of storm activity.

Winter Temperature Outlook

Temperatures throughout the winter are projected to remain near average, punctuated by cold spells early in December and milder periods subsequently. An active storm track will bring significant temperature fluctuations, but the likelihood of an extensive snowstorm, defined as one producing over one foot of snow, remains low.

Snowfall Forecasts for 2025

Although this snowfall forecast is below average, many residents might still view this winter as an active season. However, it is important to note that most anticipated storms will not result in pure snowfalls.