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Pennsylvania: A December Heat Wave is Coming

Author Anne Erickson
Getty Images / S-Coulter

We’re about into December, and that usually means pretty cold temperatures in our parts. I, personally, don’t like the snow and cold at all. I wish we could just have a little bit around the holidays and then fast-forward to spring. But, when you live in our area, you’re going to get some cold temperatures. But, you take the good with the bad, and we do live in a beautiful state, so I’ll handle the cold during these winter months. The good news, for people like me who don’t like the cold, is that a December heat wave is coming to Pennsylvania.

We’re not going to be out there in bikinis and trunks, soaking up the sun on the beach or anything. But, the forecast calls for higher than normal temperatures soon, and that warmer weather will last. Here’s the scoop on what areas are getting the warmest weather and when.

What to expect from this December heat wave

According to Weather.com, the state’s weather pattern is going to turn warmer than normal starting on Thursday (Nov. 30), and these above normal temperatures are on target to last for a few weeks. Instead of temperatures in the 30s, the state is projected to hit the 50s starting Thursday and running through Monday. Even after Monday, temps dip a bit and then go back up into the 50s. Rain is also on the way, meaning we dodged the chance of having some snow. Specifically, Pittsburgh will reach 51 on Thursday and a balmy 55 on Saturday. Philadelphia will reach 50 on Thursday and 53 on Saturday and Sunday.

Moreover, in Philadelphia, the temperatures will be back up to 52 by the next Saturday (Dec. 9). So, a “December heat wave” might be a bit of a strong term for this weather. But, it’s certainly going to be warmer than it has been the past few days, and I’ll gladly take the upswing.

Stores and Restaurants Open on Christmas Day

  • CVS

    While many CVS stores operate 24/7, it’s important to note that their hours are shorter on Christmas. Typically, running from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., CVS remains one of the few stores open on holidays to accommodate those needing to pick up medications.

  • Walgreens

    Most Walgreens locations are open on Christmas Day, with some maintaining their usual 24/7 schedule. Meanwhile, others, which are not typically open around the clock, may have limited hours from 8 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. This is convenient for those requiring prescription fills or over-the-counter medications.

  • Denny's

    Denny’s has your back on Christmas Day, as their locations are open. Their Facebook post assures, “Denny’s is open 24/7, and that means Christmas too! Come on in and feel the cheer; we’ll be waiting for you.” However, some locations are corporate stores, and others are franchises, and not all franchises may honor these hours, so check in advance before making the trip.

  • IHOP

    If you’re craving pancakes on Christmas Day, IHOP is an option. However, be sure to check your local IHOP’s hours, as they can vary. Some locations operate 24 hours, most maintain regular hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Others may open with reduced holiday hours (around 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

  • Starbucks

    Enjoy a holiday drink or grab last-minute gifts like coffee mugs at select Starbucks locations open on Christmas Day. Verify your local cafe’s hours using the Starbucks app as a recommended way to find a store, check hours, and order ahead. “This holiday season, Starbucks store hours vary by location and stores may occasionally adjust their hours based on business and customer needs,” said the coffee shop website.

  • Dunkin'

    Dunkin’ locations will generally be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but you should check to confirm your local store’s specific hours. Dunkin’ spots within grocery stores and gas stations will follow the host store’s schedule. For instance, if it’s a location within a Walmart that’s closed, that Dunkin’ store will be closed.

  • McDonald's

    McDonald’s typically stays open on Christmas, but it’s best to check with your local franchise, as each operates independently. Given that 93% of McDonald’s restaurants are run by independent owners, hours can vary. It’s not a guarantee that your local branch will be open.

  • Wendy's

    Craving a 10-piece nugget combo or a Baconator on Christmas? Wendy’s has you covered, as the fast-food chain is open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Check with your local store to confirm their hours. Wendy’s suggests using their location finder, whether you plan to walk in, drive-thru, or opt for delivery.

Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.

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