POTTSTOWN PA – High temperatures for New Year’s Day are expected in the mid-40s, according to the National Weather Service report of Pottstown weather on Monday (Jan. 1, 2024). For those participating in the day’s Polar Bear Swim at the borough’s Riverfront Park that means a chilly, but not frosty, Schuylkill River awaits them.
There may be slight chance of precipitation, though, the weather service added. A 20% possibility exists for rain and snow showers from 7-10 a.m.; registration for the swim is scheduled to start at 9:30 a.m. in the park on College Drive.
A 20% possibility of rain showers only exists after 10 a.m.; the swim into the Schuylkill launches promptly at 10:30 a.m., its sponsor the Pottstown Parks and Recreation Department said.
Winds are anticipated to be calm throughout the day, the weather service noted, “becoming northwest around 5 miles per hour in the afternoon.”
There’s no fee to participate in the swim challenge. It’s also free to just stop by to cheer on those who do. Donations to assist the department’s programs, however, will be appreciated.
All swim participants must sign an indemnification and waiver form at registration. Proper identification will be required. The swim is open to individuals age 18 and older, as well as those age 16-17 but only with a guardian’s consent and signed waiver. Children age 15 and younger cannot participate in the swim.
“Not crazy enough to swim?,” the department asks. Then “join us for (a post-plunge) bonfire, and get yourself a pork hot dog with sauerkraut for good luck in the New Year,” it added.
Also on Jan. 1, the department and the Manatawny Athletic Club will conduct an inaugural Polar Run, a 2.23-mile race through Riverfront Park. Advance registration for it is being accepted online.
Photo of an earlier Polar Bear Swim by Travels With The Post
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