Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania usually brings a mix of chilly air, damp conditions, and the possibility of early snow, all depending on where you spend the holiday. Daytime highs typically land in the 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, while nights get colder—sometimes dipping into the 30s or even below freezing.
Some years feel mild and gray, but others surprise you with flurries, especially up in the northwest near Lake Erie.
Traveling across the state during this time really shows how much the weather can shift. Philadelphia often holds on to cool but manageable fall temperatures.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh and Erie might already see colder air and some light snow by late November. Central valleys like Harrisburg and State College usually fall somewhere in between, with damp days and crisp evenings.
It helps to know what to expect so you can plan your travels and gatherings accordingly. If you look at typical Thanksgiving weather, regional quirks, and long-term patterns, you can prep for the season with a bit more confidence and less guesswork.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in Pennsylvania
Thanksgiving lands right in the transition from fall to early winter in Pennsylvania. You’ll get cool to cold air, shorter days, and a fair chance of rain or even snow, depending where you are.
Average Temperatures in Late November
Pennsylvania’s humid continental climate means late November brings a noticeable chill. In the southeast, including Philadelphia, daytime highs average around 12–13°C (mid-50s°F).
Nights there drop close to 4–5°C (low 40s°F). Out west and up north—think Pittsburgh, Erie, Scranton—you’ll definitely feel colder air.
Highs often range between 7–10°C (mid-40s°F), and lows dip near 0–2°C (mid-30s°F). Overnight frost is common, and you might see light snow in higher elevations.
If you’re traveling, pack layers. A warm coat, gloves, and hat will come in handy, especially if you’re planning outdoor stuff like parades, football games, or hiking.
Precipitation and Snowfall Patterns
Rain shows up more often than snow around Thanksgiving, but it really depends on the region. On average, Pennsylvania cities get about 7–9 days of measurable precipitation in November.
Rainfall totals usually fall between 60–90 mm (2.5–3.5 inches) for the month. Snowfall is all about location.
Philadelphia rarely sees snow before December, but Scranton and Erie often pick up early flakes. Erie, with its lake-effect snow, can get 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) in late November.
Scranton averages similar amounts, while Pittsburgh sees less snow but still has a chance.
You should expect wet ground or slush if temperatures hover near freezing. Roads in northern counties can get slick, so travel plans might need some flexibility.
Daylight Hours and Cloud Cover
By late November, daylight really starts to shrink. Across Pennsylvania, you get about 9.5 to 10 hours of daylight, with the sun setting before 5:00 p.m.
This short window can mess with outdoor plans, so it’s smart to schedule activities earlier in the day.
Clouds are frequent. In Pittsburgh and Erie, skies are clear less than 40% of the time.
Philadelphia and Scranton see a bit more sun, with around 45–50% clear skies.
You’ll probably get plenty of gray, overcast afternoons. With the early sunsets, it creates that dim, cool feeling that’s just classic late autumn in Pennsylvania.
Regional Variations Across Pennsylvania
Weather around Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania really depends on your location. Elevation, how close you are to Lake Erie, and the Appalachian Mountains all shape the local temperatures, rainfall, and snowfall.
Weather Differences in Eastern and Western Pennsylvania
Eastern Pennsylvania usually runs a few degrees warmer than the west at this time of year. Cities like Philadelphia and Allentown often see highs in the mid-40s °F.
Western areas like Pittsburgh and Erie drop closer to the upper 30s °F.
Snow chances shift too. Western Pennsylvania, especially near Lake Erie, often gets early-season snow thanks to lake-effect bands.
Eastern areas see less snow, but you can still get light flurries or cold rain.
Rainfall trends show another split. The west tends to be wetter, with November precipitation averaging 3–4 inches. The east averages closer to 2–3 inches.
Travel conditions can vary a lot across the state during the holiday week.
Impact of the Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains slice through central Pennsylvania and create sharp weather contrasts. Higher spots like the Allegheny Plateau and Pocono Mountains often run 5–10°F colder than the nearby valleys.
These mountains boost snowfall too. Travelers heading through the Poconos or Laurel Highlands might hit icy roads or several inches of snow, even if the lower areas only get rain.
Wind patterns shift as air moves over ridges and valleys. Mountain passes can funnel strong gusts.
Sheltered valleys stay calmer but get colder at night. If you’re driving through central Pennsylvania, you should prep for quick weather changes in short distances.
Thanksgiving Weather in Philadelphia
Philadelphia sits in the southeast, where the climate is milder than most of the state. Around Thanksgiving, average highs reach the mid-40s °F, and lows dip into the mid-30s °F.
Snow is pretty uncommon this early, though you might see a few flurries mixed with rain.
Humidity lingers, making damp days feel colder than the thermometer says. Rainfall averages about 2–3 inches in November, with showers more likely than snow.
Because Philadelphia is urban, the urban heat island effect keeps nighttime temperatures a bit warmer than the suburbs. So, you’re more likely to see wet streets than ice if you stay in the city.
Historical Thanksgiving Weather Trends
If you look back at Thanksgiving weather in Pennsylvania, you’ll find a mix of mild autumn days, sharp cold snaps, and the occasional snowstorm. The state’s geography means conditions often differ between cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg.
Notable Weather Events
Some Thanksgivings in Pennsylvania really stand out for their weird weather. In 1938, Harrisburg got nearly 7 inches of snow, making it one of the snowiest holidays on record.
By contrast, in 1933, the same city hit a high of 70°F—pretty wild for late November.
Some years bring heavy rain instead of snow. For example, Thanksgiving in 1935 dumped more than 0.6 inches of rain on Harrisburg, while other spots stayed mostly dry.
These extremes show how Thanksgiving weather in Pennsylvania can swing fast between winter-like storms and unseasonably warm afternoons.
For travelers, it’s a reminder to prep for both scenarios, especially if you’ll drive across mountain regions where things change quickly.
Temperature Fluctuations Over the Years
Temperatures around Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania usually range from the upper 20s at night to the 50s during the day, depending on the year.
Long-term data shows big swings. Some years stay below freezing, while others climb into the 60s.
For example, Harrisburg saw highs of 29°F in 1930 and 64°F in 1914—not that far apart. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh show the same kind of pattern, though the southeast’s coastal influence keeps Philly a bit warmer.
These shifts just highlight how unpredictable late November can be. One year you might enjoy a crisp but comfortable holiday, the next year it’s biting cold.
If you’re planning outdoor activities like parades or football games, you really have to check forecasts—averages don’t tell the whole story.
Snowfall Records in November
Snow on Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania doesn’t happen as often as rain, but it’s made a mark in some years. In 1938, Harrisburg’s 6.8 inches created a holiday snowpack of 7 inches, one of the largest ever.
Other years, like 1898, brought lighter amounts, with just 0.5 inches recorded.
Most Thanksgivings pass without measurable snow in cities like Philadelphia, Harrisburg, or Pittsburgh. But areas near Erie and the northern tier often see higher odds thanks to lake-effect snow.
These regions can pick up several inches even when the rest of the state stays clear.
If you’re traveling in late November, you should expect snow is possible but not guaranteed. The chance is higher up northwest, while central and eastern Pennsylvania usually get cold rain instead.
Comparing Thanksgiving Weather to Other Seasons
Thanksgiving weather in Pennsylvania brings cool days and chilly nights, but it rarely matches the extremes of deep winter or the warmth of late spring and summer.
The differences matter when you’re planning travel, outdoor stuff, or even just what to wear for family gatherings.
Contrast with January and February Weather
Compared to January and February, late November feels milder and less snowy. Average highs around Thanksgiving hit the low to mid-40s °F, while January and February often can’t even get above freezing.
Nighttime lows in January can drop into the teens, and February is only a little warmer. Thanksgiving lows usually stay in the upper 20s to low 30s.
That means less risk of bitter cold, though frost and icy spots still show up.
Snowfall is also way different. By Thanksgiving, measurable snow is rare in most of Pennsylvania, though flurries or a light dusting can happen.
In January and February, snow is frequent and can get heavy, especially in the north and west.
If you’re traveling, roads are more likely to be clear in late November than in the thick of winter. That makes Thanksgiving trips less stressful than midwinter travel.
Differences from Spring and Summer Conditions
Spring and summer are a whole different world. By late May, highs in Pennsylvania often reach the 70s, and summer afternoons usually climb into the 80s or 90s.
Compared to Thanksgiving, these seasons are warmer and definitely more humid.
Rainfall patterns change too. Thanksgiving tends to be drier, with just light precipitation most years.
Spring brings frequent showers and thunderstorms, and summer can bring heavy downpours or even severe weather.
Daylight is another big difference. Around Thanksgiving, you only get about 9 to 10 hours.
In June, you get more than 15 hours, so there’s a lot more time for outdoor activities.
If you like hiking or sightseeing, Thanksgiving weather means layers and shorter outings. In summer, you’re more worried about heat, sunscreen, and hydration than cold winds and early sunsets.
Best Time to Visit Pennsylvania for Mild Weather
Mild weather in Pennsylvania usually shows up in late spring and again in early to mid-autumn. These seasons bring comfortable temperatures, fewer extremes, and make outdoor sightseeing and travel way easier.
Why Autumn is Popular for Visitors
Autumn gives you some of the most pleasant conditions for travel in Pennsylvania. From late September through October, daytime highs often reach the 60s to low 70s °F.
Nights cool into the 40s and 50s °F. By November, highs usually drop into the 50s °F, but the crisp air is still good for walking tours, hiking, and city visits.
You also get lower humidity than summer, which makes the air feel more comfortable. Rain is moderate, and snow is unusual before late November unless you’re up in the higher elevations.
This balance of mild temperatures and limited weather disruptions is why so many people think fall is one of the best times to visit Pennsylvania.
Another bonus? The scenery. The state’s mix of forests and rolling hills puts on a show with vibrant foliage, especially in October.
Popular spots like the Pocono Mountains, Laurel Highlands, and state parks all show off peak colors that pair perfectly with the comfortable weather.
Tips for Planning a Thanksgiving Trip
If you’re thinking about visiting around Thanksgiving, get ready for cooler weather, but honestly, it’s still pretty manageable. Late November usually brings highs in the upper 40s to mid-50s °F, while lows can drop into the 30s °F.
Snow might show up in the northern and western counties. But, in cities like Philadelphia or Harrisburg, it’s not something you see too often.
Pack layers so you can handle the changing temperatures. A light jacket usually does the trick during the day. At night though, you’ll probably want a heavier coat.
Planning to hike or just wander outside? Waterproof shoes come in handy, since November sometimes means wet ground and a bit of rain.
You’ll notice crowds thin out compared to summer or early fall. That means hotels are easier to find and prices usually aren’t too bad.
If you want a spot near big holiday events or if you’re meeting up with family, book your place early. Thanksgiving week gets busy, and spots fill quickly.
Weather Preparation and Travel Tips for Thanksgiving
Late November in Pennsylvania brings cold air and damp weather, with icy roads popping up now and then. If you plan ahead, you can stay safe and comfortable, whether you stick close to home or travel across the state.
Packing and Clothing Recommendations
Temperatures in Pennsylvania around Thanksgiving usually swing from the low 30s at night to the upper 40s during the day. Wind and rain? Yeah, they’re pretty common, especially in the central and western areas.
Wearing layers lets you adjust as the weather changes throughout the day. Bring a warm coat, gloves, and a hat because mornings and evenings can feel much colder than the afternoon.
A waterproof outer layer is a smart move if rain or sleet shows up. Shoes with good traction help you stay steady on wet or icy sidewalks.
If you’re staying overnight, toss in extra socks and clothes, just in case your first set gets wet. Families with kids should pack more layers since children lose heat faster than adults.
A small travel umbrella or a hooded jacket is helpful when you’re running between the car and wherever you’re headed.
Travel Safety and Road Conditions
Thanksgiving week in Pennsylvania? It’s hectic, no doubt. You’ll notice traffic really ramps up the day before the holiday, especially from mid-afternoon through the evening.
If you can swing it, try to hit the road before late morning. Or maybe just wait until after the evening rush dies down.
Rain, sleet, or even a little freezing rain can make roads slick—untreated spots and higher elevations get the worst of it. When things get messy, give yourself more space between cars and slow down.
It’s not a bad idea to toss an ice scraper, flashlight, and blanket in your car. You never know when you’ll get delayed, and it’s better to be ready.
Check PennDOT advisories, real-time traffic apps, and local weather before you head out.
If you’re flying, give yourself extra time at the airport. Weather delays in one place can mess up flights all over the country.