By: Richard L. Smith
Newark and the North Jersey region woke up to damp conditions this morning after a round of overnight rain soaked the area just after midnight.
As of 4:30 a.m., it was a mild 59 degrees in downtown Newark.
According to the National Weather Service, skies will gradually clear, leading to a partly sunny day with temperatures climbing to a high near 78 degrees. 
Light southwest winds will shift to the south at 5 to 10 mph by late morning.
However, residents are advised to keep an umbrella handy, as showers are expected to return tonight, mainly after 11 p.m.
The overnight low will hover around 61 degrees, with a 90% chance of rain and steady south winds around 9 mph.
Enjoy the warm weather today, but be prepared for wet conditions later this evening!