The National Weather Service says a strong cold front will race across the region on Friday, Oct. 16, bringing a fast-moving line of downpours and thunderstorms before the season's coldest air arrives.
Morning showers will give way to a temporary lull in many areas. The stronger line will then move from west to east during the afternoon and evening.
The National Weather Service expects storms between about 4 and 6 p.m. in the Poconos, northwestern New Jersey, and the Lehigh Valley. The line should reach the Interstate 95 corridor between 5 and 7 p.m., then move into southern New Jersey and Delmarva between 6 and 8 p.m.
Storms should reach the New York City area around 7 or 8 p.m., then cross Long Island and southern New England later in the evening.
The Storm Prediction Center placed much of the region under a Level 2 severe-weather risk. Damaging wind gusts are the primary concern. An isolated, brief tornado is also possible, particularly from northeastern Maryland through eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and western Connecticut.
AccuWeather says gusts within the strongest storms could reach 55 to 65 mph.
“Wind gusts will average 25-40 mph, which is not quite as strong as what can sometimes occur with the most powerful storms in the autumn, winter and spring,” AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said. “However, winds will be strong enough to send leaves, as well as unsecured trash cans, recycling bins, and Halloween decorations flying through neighborhoods.”
The front will move quickly, but showers could linger across eastern New York and southern New England early Saturday, Oct. 17.
A dramatic temperature plunge will follow. Saturday’s highs will be mainly in the 50s, about 20 to 30 degrees below Friday’s readings in some locations.
Northwest wind gusts could reach 25 to 35 mph, adding to the blustery conditions.
Winds will gradually ease Saturday night, allowing temperatures to fall into the 30s across many inland communities. Freeze conditions are possible in colder valleys and higher elevations.
High pressure will bring sunshine and lighter winds on Sunday, Oct. 18. Temperatures should begin recovering on Monday, Oct. 19, before many areas return to the 60s on Tuesday, Oct. 20.
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