Newark, NJ – A powerful storm system is set to impact New Jersey overnight Thursday into Friday morning, bringing periods of heavy rain, damaging winds, and potential power outages, with the most severe conditions expected during the morning commute.
Wind Advisories Issued Across All Counties
The National Weather Service has issued wind advisories for all 21 New Jersey counties from 1 a.m. Friday through 1 a.m. Saturday. Sustained winds of 30–40 mph and gusts up to 45 mph are expected in many areas, with some gusts possibly reaching 50 mph after the front passes.
Forecasters warn that the combination of strong winds and saturated ground could lead to downed trees and power lines, resulting in scattered power outages throughout the state.
Heavy Rain Expected During Morning Commute
Rain will begin to spread across the state after midnight Thursday, becoming heavy at times with embedded thunderstorms possible. The heaviest rainfall is forecast along the Interstate 95 corridor between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. Friday, likely causing slower traffic and delays for commuters.
Most areas are expected to receive 0.75 to 1.25 inches of rain, with urban areas and locations with poor drainage being the most vulnerable to localized flooding.
Cold Front Brings a Second Wind Surge
Forecasters say a narrow line of heavy rain or broken line may form along a cold front between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., capable of producing damaging wind gusts. After the front moves through late Friday morning, there will be a brief lull before west-northwest winds increase again, maintaining gusts between 35 and 45 mph.
Temperatures will rise overnight Thursday, reaching the 50s statewide and even the low 60s in some locations, before dropping sharply once the cold front passes. By Friday evening, lows are expected to bottom out in the mid-20s across much of the state.
Weekend Outlook: Dry but Chilly
High pressure will build over New Jersey Saturday, bringing dry conditions and diminishing winds. Temperatures will remain slightly below normal, offering a brief respite from the stormy conditions.
Sunday will see another cold front pass through, followed by a secondary cold front Sunday night. Both are expected to remain dry, though gusty west-northwest winds will persist.
Early Week Forecast: Frigid Temperatures and Light Precipitation
A frigid air mass will settle in Monday, with highs only in the low 30s. Another frontal system may impact the region Tuesday, with light snow in the morning possibly changing to rain or a rain-snow mix later. Precipitation amounts are expected to remain light, with no major impacts forecast.
High pressure returns by Wednesday into Thursday, bringing dry conditions, though meteorologists warn of possible unsettled weather later in the week.
Are you adjusting your commute or holiday plans for the storm? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
