By: Richard L. Smith
Good morning, New Jersey!
We’re waking up to a pleasant start to the day with temperatures around 70 degrees in downtown Newark, but don’t let the quiet weather fool you.
After a beautiful weekend across the Garden State, conditions are expected to change significantly later today as showers and thunderstorms move into the region.
While the morning commute should remain mostly dry, residents are encouraged to keep an umbrella or poncho nearby.
A strong area of rain and thunderstorms is advancing from the west and is expected to impact much of northern New Jersey and surrounding areas this afternoon and evening.
Some storms could produce gusty winds, heavy downpours, and periods of reduced visibility.
Temperatures across the state early this morning include 56 degrees in Sussex County, 59 in Somerville, 68 in Edison, 67 in Toms River, and 70 degrees in Newark.
According to the National Weather Service, there is a chance of showers this morning before more widespread rain and thunderstorms develop after 2 p.m.
High temperatures will reach near 79 degrees with southeast winds between 6 and 11 mph.
The chance of precipitation is 80 percent, with rainfall amounts between a quarter and one-half inch possible during the day.
Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue.
Overnight lows will fall to around 66 degrees with south winds of 6 to 9 mph and gusts up to 25 mph. Rainfall totals between one-half and three-quarters of an inch are possible.
Enjoy the dry start while it lasts, and be prepared for a wet and stormy finish to the day.