Heat, Storms and Tornado Threat: Philly Region Pads for Weekend Weather Whiplash

The UBJ Desk

The UBJ Desk

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Heat, Storms and Tornado Threat: Philly Region Pads for Weekend Weather Whiplash

A powerful cold front swept through Thursday (June 19), sparking severe thunderstorms across Philadelphia, its suburbs, southern New Jersey, and Delaware . Between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m., storms unleashed damaging wind gusts, heavy rain, hail, and even brief tornado warnings in Chester, Delaware (PA), and New Castle County (DE). Trees were downed, causing widespread power outages and property damage, though fortunately no serious injuries were reported.

Today will bring a welcome respite. Expect mostly sunny skies, lower humidity, and a comfortable high of around 86°F, making it the perfect day to enjoy the outdoors.

Set your summer clocks—Saturday marks the start of a major heat wave:

  • Saturday: High of 89°F—start hydrating early.
  • Sunday: Temperature climbs to 94°F with high humidity—a string of 90+ degree days begins.
  • Monday–Wednesday: Expect highs of 97–98°F, with heat indexes reaching 105°F or more, creating very dangerous conditions.

By Thursday (June 26), lingering heat and moisture could trigger afternoon thunderstorms, offering only brief relief before hot conditions return .

Thursday brought a shock of severe weather to the region—damaging storms, power outages, and tornado warnings put residents on alert. Now, a heat wave is rapidly approaching: 90s this weekend, escalating to potentially record-breaking mid-to-upper 90s by early next week. Stay weather-wise, stay hydrated, and keep tabs on expected thunderstorms toward next Thursday.

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