Winter Storm Looms Over New Jersey This Weekend
As New Jersey braces for another winter challenge, the likelihood of a significant snowstorm this weekend has increased, though forecasters caution that exact snow totals remain uncertain.
According to the National Weather Service, there is an increasing potential for an impactful winter storm across parts of New Jersey this weekend. While details are still developing, the service noted, 'potential exists for substantial snow accumulations, primarily Saturday night through Sunday.'
Forecast Details and Uncertainty
Most weather models indicate a storm developing near Texas on Friday, then tracking up the East Coast toward New Jersey. The key question for forecasters is how close the storm will track to New Jersey, which will greatly influence snowfall totals.
Currently, the southern half of New Jersey has a 40 to 60% chance of receiving 6 or more inches of snow, with decreasing probabilities farther north. Areas south and west of the I-95 corridor have a 60 to 70% chance of 2 or more inches of snow.
However, the National Weather Service emphasized that conditions influencing the storm are still thousands of miles away, making it too early to have confidence in specific snowfall amounts at any given location.
Timing of the Potential Snowstorm
The timing for the potential snowstorm is expected to be late Saturday, continuing through Sunday and possibly lingering into Monday depending on the system's speed.
Forecast uncertainty remains significant due to the distance of the influencing weather systems. This makes it challenging to predict snowfall amounts accurately at this time.
Current Conditions and Precautions
Meanwhile, New Jersey is currently experiencing dangerously cold conditions. A cold weather advisory is in effect for much of the state until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, with wind chills near or below zero degrees.
Black ice is possible on untreated road surfaces this morning as temperatures plunge into the single digits and teens, with any snowmelt from Monday afternoon refreezing overnight.
Wind chills will reach near or below zero degrees northwest of the I-95 corridor and in central New Jersey, with single-digit wind chills expected across the rest of the state. Residents are advised to wear appropriate layers of clothing if spending any time outside, particularly while traveling, and to allow extra time to reach destinations due to hazardous road conditions.
Temperature Outlook for the Coming Days
High pressure will move overhead Tuesday night, allowing winds to lighten under clear skies and enabling significant radiational cooling that will produce widespread overnight lows in the single digits.
Wind chills Tuesday night into Wednesday morning may again reach near or below zero degrees north and west of the I-95 corridor, potentially warranting additional cold weather advisories.
Ahead of the weekend storm potential, temperatures will briefly moderate Wednesday and Thursday, with highs reaching the 30s Wednesday and the 40s Thursday, providing a temporary break from the bitter cold.
Another Arctic front will move through late Thursday, returning colder conditions by Friday with highs in the 20s and 30s and lows in the single digits and teens by Friday night.
Very cold conditions are expected to continue into the weekend with highs generally in the teens and 20s and lows in the single digits and teens.
Preparing for the Weekend Storm
As the potential for a significant snowstorm increases, New Jersey residents are advised to prepare for the possibility of hazardous winter conditions. This may include:
- Stocking up on essential supplies such as food, water, and medications.
- Ensuring that vehicles are prepared for winter weather, with adequate fuel and emergency kits.
- Checking that heating systems are functioning properly.
- Being aware of potential school and business closures due to weather conditions.
Stay tuned to local weather forecasts for updates on the potential snowstorm's timing and intensity. The situation may evolve in the coming days as forecasters get a better understanding of the storm's track and potential impact on New Jersey.
