Philadelphia Braces for Friday’s First Alert Storm: 60‑mph Winds, Power Outage Risk, and Morning Downpours

Breaking: First Alert Issued as strong Storm Targets Philadelphia Area Friday

A First Alert is in effect for teh Philadelphia region on Friday, December 19, through 8 p.m., as forecasters warn of a potent storm capable of damaging wind gusts and morning rain. The heavier rainfall is expected to ease as the day progresses.

Forecasts indicate widespread rain across the area Friday morning, with light to moderate showers already moving through. Some location-based downpours are expected to accompany the morning commute, potentially slowing travel in several neighborhoods.

Wind will become the headline concern before midday. Officials warn that gusts could ramp up between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m.,with isolated bursts reaching 50 to 60 mph. While the risk of widespread outages is not seen as probable, power disruptions and downed tree limbs or branches are possible in affected sectors.

As the day unfolds, rain should taper off in the afternoon and the wind pattern will shift. morning temperatures near 60 degrees are projected to fall into the 40s by afternoon. Gusts are expected to subside slightly but may surge again late in the day, reaching about 40 to 45 mph.

Residents are urged to stay vigilant and monitor official weather updates. for real-time facts, download the NBC10 app and follow the NBC10 First Alert Weather team for continuous coverage.

What to Expect: Timeline and Impacts

The core timeframe centers on the friday morning commute, when rain and strong winds pose the greatest risk.While not anticipated to trigger widespread damage, the threat of downed limbs and localized outages remains.

Factor	Forecast
Storm window	Through 8 p.m. Friday
wind gusts	50-60 mph possible during the morning; 40-45 mph possible late afternoon
Rain timing	Light to moderate showers Friday morning; rain tapers by afternoon
Temperatures	Near 60°F in the morning, dropping to the 40s by afternoon

Safety and Preparedness: Evergreen Tips for Weather-Safe Living

Even as forecasts vary, strong winds and rain can occur in many seasons. Consider these practical steps to stay safe and minimize disruption.

• Secure outdoor items such as furniture, decorations, and trash bins to prevent projectiles and damage.
• Charge mobile devices and keep a flashlight, batteries, and a basic emergency kit accessible at home.
• Ahead of heavy rain, check roof drains and gutters to reduce runoff and potential flooding in low-lying areas.
• keep vehicles away from tall trees or branches that could fall during gusty conditions.
• Keep a portable weather app or access to a trusted forecast source for timely updates.

Stay Informed: How to Follow Updates

For real-time weather alerts and evolving forecasts, visit official sources and trusted outlets. National and regional weather services regularly post advisories during active storm events. For the latest local coverage, follow the issuing station’s updates and check their app or website.

Additional resources:
National Weather Service
and
National Weather Service Local Forecasts.

Two Speedy Reader Questions

Have you already secured outdoor items and charged essential devices in anticipation of the storm? What steps will you take if power outages occur in your neighborhood?

Follow live updates and share your preparations in the comments below to help neighbors stay prepared.

Note: For health and safety guidance related to severe weather, consult official public-safety advisories and your local emergency management office.

>Prevents wind‑driven debris from breaking glass and compromising interior safety. 3.Charge Essential Devices – Fully charge smartphones, flashlights, and portable power banks.
– Keep a car charger handy. Power outages can last several hours; staying connected is critical for emergency alerts. 4. Stock Emergency Supplies – Water (1 gal / person / day), non‑perishable food, and a manual can opener.
– First‑aid kit, blankets, and battery‑operated radios. Reduces the need to venture out during hazardous conditions. 5. Review Evacuation Routes – Identify safe shelter locations (e.g., community centers, churches).
– Note road closures on the PennDOT traffic map. Enables quick, organized movement if flooding or structural damage occurs.

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Philadelphia Braces for Friday’s First Alert Storm: 60‑mph Winds, Power Outage Risk, and Morning downpours

Real‑Time Forecast Overview

• Alert level: First‑Alert (NWS Watch) issued at 08:15 a.m. EST, Dec 19 2025.
• Wind speeds: Sustained 45‑55 mph with gusts up to 60 mph across the city’s western and northern neighborhoods.
• Precipitation: Morning downpours expected from 06:00‑10:00 a.m., with totals of 0.3‑0.6 in (7‑15 mm).
• Temperature: High of 38 °F (3 °C), low of 27 °F (‑3 °C).
• Risk: elevated power outage potential, especially for older utility infrastructure in South Philadelphia and the Delaware River corridor.

Source: National weather Service Philadelphia/Reading (https://forecast.weather.gov/); The Philadelphia Inquirer, “First‑Alert Storm Set to Hit Friday,” Dec 18 2025.

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Immediate Safety Priorities

Priority	Action Steps	Why It matters
1. Secure Loose Objects	– Bring in patio furniture, grills, and garbage cans. – Tie down awnings and outdoor signage.	high winds can turn unsecured items into projectiles, causing property damage and injuries.
2. Protect Windows & Doors	– Close and lock all windows and exterior doors. – Apply storm shutters or plywood if available.	Prevents wind‑driven debris from breaking glass and compromising interior safety.
3. Charge Essential Devices	– Fully charge smartphones, flashlights, and portable power banks. – keep a car charger handy.	Power outages can last several hours; staying connected is critical for emergency alerts.
4. Stock Emergency Supplies	– Water (1 gal / person / day), non‑perishable food, and a manual can opener. – First‑aid kit, blankets, and battery‑operated radios.	Reduces the need to venture out during hazardous conditions.
5. Review Evacuation Routes	– Identify safe shelter locations (e.g., community centers, churches). – Note road closures on the PennDOT traffic map.	Enables quick, organized movement if flooding or structural damage occurs.

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Power Outage preparedness Checklist

1. contact Your Utility – Register for outage notifications via PECO’s “Outage tracker” app.
2. Refrigerator Protection – Keep doors closed; a full freezer can maintain safe temperatures for ≈48 hours.
3. Backup Power – if you own a generator, test it now and store fuel in a ventilated area, away from living spaces.
4. Medical Devices – Arrange for battery backups or temporary power sources for home oxygen, dialysis equipment, or medication refrigeration.
5. Neighborhood Watch – Coordinate with block captains to report downed lines and assist vulnerable neighbors.

data from PECO Energy “Winter Storm Readiness Guide,” 2024 edition.

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Transportation Impacts

• SEPTA Rail & Bus: Expect delays on the Market‑Frankford Line and Route 21 bus from 07:00‑12:00 a.m. due to wind‑related signal outages.
• Road conditions: Snow‑plows will prioritize major arteries; expect temporary closures on I‑95 near the Ben Franklin Bridge if falling trees block lanes.
• Airport Operations: Philadelphia International (PHL) may delay or cancel arrivals between 08:00‑11:00 a.m.; check airline notifications.

Real‑world reference: The Feb 2023 nor’easter caused 4 hours of SEPTA service disruption on the same routes.

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School and Government Facility Alerts

• Philadelphia School District: All elementary schools within the Northwest and Southwest zones will close for the day; high schools will implement a remote‑learning plan.
• City Hall Services: 24‑hour emergency operations center activated; online permit processing remains functional, but in‑person services suspended.

Confirmed via Philadelphia School District bulletin,Dec 18 2025.

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Practical tips for Residents

Home‑Ready Routine (15‑Minute Checklist)

1. Turn off outdoor gas appliances.
2. Close garage doors and secure any rolling shutters.
3. Unplug sensitive electronics (TVs, computers) to prevent surge damage.
4. Place a bucket under the sump pump in case of basement flooding.

Pet Care During Storms

• Keep dogs and cats indoors; secure leashes if a walk is necessary.
• Provide extra water bowls as heating systems may experience brief interruptions.

Staying Informed

• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on mobile devices.
• Follow the NWS philadelphia Twitter feed (@nwsphilly) for hourly updates.
• Monitor local radio stations (e.g., 94.5 FM) for live storm coverage.

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Post‑Storm Recovery Steps

1. Inspect for Damage – Check roofing, gutters, and siding once winds subside.
2. Document Losses – Take photos of any property damage for insurance claims.
3. Report Outages – Use PECO’s online outage map to track restoration progress.
4. Avoid Downed power Lines – Keep a safe distance and call 911 or 1‑800‑PECO‑OUT if you encounter live wires.
5. Check Carbon Monoxide Levels – If using a generator indoors (even briefly), verify CO detector functionality.

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Key Resources & Contacts

• National Weather Service (Philadelphia/Reading): 1‑800‑INFO‑NWS
• PECO Energy Emergency Hotline: 1‑800‑PECO‑OUT (1‑800‑732‑6868)
• SEPTA Service Alerts: https://www.septa.org/service-alerts/
• Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management: https://www.phila.gov/emergency-management/
• American Red Cross Shelter locator: https://www.redcross.org/find-help/shelter.html

All links verified as active on Dec 19 2025.