BREAKING: December 2023 has been officially declared one of the coldest and dreariest months on record for southeastern Pennsylvania. With an average temperature of just 35.0 degrees at Philadelphia International Airport, the month was a staggering 3.6 degrees below normal, bringing a total of 4.5 inches of snow.
Last month experienced a relentless winter grip, with snow recorded on eight days and rain on another four days. The consistent presence of precipitation contributed to the gloomy atmosphere, with weather reports indicating that 12 days were considered overcast and only one day could barely be classified as mostly sunny.
The National Weather Service reveals that December 2023 is tied for the 44th coldest of the last 154 years, and it ranks as the fourth coldest this century, trailing only behind the frigid Decembers of 2000, 2010, and 2005. Notably, this month saw 11 days where temperatures failed to reach 40 degrees.
For many residents, the relentless chill has compounded the emotional weight of winter. The stark contrast to the previous autumn, which enjoyed nine clear days and 16 partly cloudy days, has left many longing for warmer weather. In December 2022, conditions were slightly more bearable, resulting in three clear days and 18 partly cloudy days.
The last time Philadelphia experienced a December with more overcast days was in December 2021, but it was a significantly warmer month, averaging 45.3 degrees. Residents are reminded that the coldest December on record occurred in 1900 at a bone-chilling 25.4 degrees.
As we move into January, forecasts from the National Weather Service show a glimmer of hope for a break from the winter gloom. Meteorologists predict a warming trend and some sunshine over the coming week, which could lift spirits across the region.
Stay tuned as we monitor this developing weather situation and what it may mean for the weeks ahead.
