By: Richard L. Smith
The Newark and North Jersey region is experiencing the calm before the storm, with today marking the final mild day before a significant winter weather event.
Residents are encouraged to use this day for preparation, as we anticipate waking up to snow and frozen precipitation late Monday night into Tuesday.
The storm's timing poses a challenge for Tuesday morning's rush hour, as snow and frozen rain are set to create slick and hazardous road conditions for commuters.
As we wake up, temperatures in North Jersey hover in the chilly range of the 20s and 30s. However, a brief respite comes with the afternoon high in Newark reaching around 49 degrees, nearly touching the 50-degree mark, under calm winds that will shift southwest at around five mph.
The National Weather Service says the weather takes a turn tonight, with rain expected after 10 p.m., transitioning to a mix with snow after 4 a.m.
Temperatures will dip to a low of around 32 degrees, with wind chill values making it feel like it's between 25 and 30 degrees.
Winds from the southeast at 5 to 14 mph will become northeast after midnight, with a 100% chance of precipitation and less than one inch of new snow accumulation expected.
Residents are urged to stay informed, prepare for the incoming weather, and exercise caution during this winter storm watch. Stay safe, Newark and North Jersey, as we navigate this impending winter weather together.