A major winter storm is impacting New Jersey, with significant risks associated with ice accumulation. The National Weather Service has reported hazardous conditions due to a combination of freezing rain, sleet, and snow.
Ice Risk in New Jersey Winter Storm
Forecasters have adjusted their predictions, now emphasizing ice as the primary concern. Areas including Hunterdon, Somerset, and northern Mercer counties are expected to experience dangerous ice levels due to the winter storm that began Friday night. The anticipated accumulation of freezing rain has heightened the risk, prompting the National Weather Service to issue alerts about potential ice storm criteria.
Winter Weather Advisories Issued
All 21 counties in New Jersey remain under a state of emergency. A travel restriction took effect at 3 p.m. on Friday. Various counties have received specific winter storm warnings, particularly:
- Bergen County
- Essex County
- Hudson County
- Passaic County
- Union County
These areas are expecting snowfalls ranging from 4 to 8 inches. However, counties like Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Sussex, and Warren have had their winter storm warnings downgraded to winter weather advisories due to significantly lower snow expectations.
Forecast Changes
The shift in weather patterns has influenced snowfall totals. Initially projected at up to 8 inches, counties like Warren and Sussex are now anticipating half that amount due to increased freezing rain. This alteration is driven by a warm air layer affecting the region, particularly south of Interstate 78.
Impacts and Future Conditions
Travel disruptions are likely regardless of the decreased snow forecasts. Precipitation is predicted to taper off by Saturday morning, with temperatures struggling to reach the 30s. Cloud cover will gradually clear from the north through the afternoon.
Upcoming Weather Outlook
On Sunday, conditions will improve with high pressure settling over New Jersey. Temperatures are expected to remain cold, with overnight lows dropping into the teens inland and low 20s along the coast. Highs will vary from just below freezing in northern regions to mid to upper 40s in the south, as southerly winds pick up.
Rain is a possibility late Sunday, particularly for northern areas that may initially experience freezing rain before transitioning to rainfall as temperatures rise. Following the storm, Monday is expected to bring milder conditions with highs in the 50s and gusty winds. This period will also feature cold fronts bringing significant temperature drops, with strong winds continuing into the following week.
