Key Takeaways
- A winter storm is expected to bring a dangerous coating of ice to most of New Jersey, with up to 50 mph winds following on Sunday
- The National Weather Service has reduced expected snowfall totals, but increased concerns for significant ice from sleet and freezing rain
- All 21 New Jersey counties remain under a state of emergency and a commercial travel restriction is in effect
- Temperatures will struggle to warm into the 30s on Saturday, with highs in the 50s expected on Monday before crashing back down to cold conditions for the rest of the week
Introduction to the Winter Storm
A winter storm is currently affecting New Jersey, bringing with it a dangerous coating of ice that has become the major concern for most of the state. The National Weather Service has made a mid-storm cut to expected snowfall totals, but has increased concerns for significant ice from sleet and freezing rain. This change in forecast has resulted from a warm layer of air aloft that brought a change to sleet and freezing rain, particularly from Interstate 78 southward. As a result, winter storm warnings have been downgraded to winter weather advisories for several counties, including Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Sussex, and Warren.
Current Weather Conditions
The current weather conditions in New Jersey are hazardous, with a widespread glaze of ice expected across more than half of the state. The most dangerous amounts of ice are centered around Hunterdon, Somerset, and northern Mercer counties. The National Weather Service has issued updated winter storm maps that show the increasing concern for significant ice from sleet and freezing rain. Despite the revised forecast for snowfall totals, significant travel disruptions are still expected. Precipitation is expected to taper off on Saturday morning, with temperatures struggling to warm into the 30s. Clouds will linger into Saturday afternoon before clearing begins from the north.
Forecast for the Rest of the Weekend
Sunday is expected to bring tranquil conditions, with high pressure settling over the region. However, temperatures will remain cold, with lows in the teens inland and low 20s along the coast on Saturday night. Sunday’s highs will range from near freezing in the far north to mid to upper 40s in southern New Jersey as southerly winds develop ahead of an approaching warm front. Rain is possible late on Sunday, though northern interior areas may see a brief period of freezing rain on Sunday evening before temperatures warm enough for all rain. Up to 50 mph winds are expected to follow the storm on Sunday, making travel conditions even more hazardous.
Forecast for the Week Ahead
Monday is expected to turn significantly milder, with highs in the 50s for most of New Jersey. Rain showers are expected, especially in the morning, with southerly winds becoming gusty. However, the cold front will sweep through on Monday, with winds shifting to the northwest and becoming very strong, with gusts potentially exceeding 40 mph. Temperatures will crash on Monday night as much colder air moves in behind the front. The rest of the week will feature cold conditions, with highs mostly in the 30s and lows in the teens and 20s. Strong winds will continue on Tuesday, with gusts of 40 to 45 mph possible. Various reinforcing shots of cold air may arrive with weak cold fronts through the week, though precipitation is more likely to stay north of New Jersey.
Conclusion and Precautions
In conclusion, the winter storm currently affecting New Jersey is expected to bring a dangerous coating of ice to most of the state, with up to 50 mph winds following on Sunday. The National Weather Service has reduced expected snowfall totals, but increased concerns for significant ice from sleet and freezing rain. It is essential to take necessary precautions to ensure safety, including avoiding travel unless absolutely necessary and staying informed about the latest weather conditions. The state of emergency and commercial travel restriction in effect for all 21 New Jersey counties should be taken seriously, and residents should be prepared for significant disruptions to daily life. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can help ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.