The Lehigh Valley is in for a winter warmup.
Temperatures are expected to jump into the 50s later this week, as a milder airmass moves into the area. High temperatures will be in the 40s through the early part of the week before reaching the 50s Friday and Saturday, according to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey.
Additionally, forecasters said a strong storm system should come to the area Friday into Saturday. Given the warmer temperatures, an “all-rain” event is expected.
A strong cold front likely will follow and bring temperatures closer to normal on Sunday, according to the weather service.
The expected rain comes during a dry period for the Lehigh Valley. There has been below-average rainfall the last few months, and the Lehigh Valley remains under drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Lehigh and Northampton counties have had about 9 inches below normal rainfall over the past six months, according to weather service data.
Tired of the cold? Well, we got some good news for you. A stretch of above normal temperatures are expected this week with relatively benign weather until some widespread rain comes later in the week. #NJwx #PAwx #MDwx #DEwx pic.twitter.com/ZyLwtkNJO2
— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) January 4, 2026
There also is a chance of rainfall Tuesday night. Here is the extended forecast from the National Weather Service:
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 42. Calm wind.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 47. West wind 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.
Friday: Showers likely, mainly after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Saturday: Showers likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 40.