By: Richard L. Smith
Residents in Newark and the North Jersey region are waking up to clear skies and warm temperatures, but forecasters say the dry start to the week won’t last. 
Rain is expected to move in later this morning and afternoon, courtesy of tropical depression Chantal.
According to the National Weather Service, it was a comfortable 77 degrees around 4:30 a.m. on Ferry Street in Newark’s Ironbound section, ideal for an early stroll or trip to the bus stop.
However, clouds will thicken as the day progresses, with a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms developing by late morning.
NWS meteorologists say some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall, particularly between 2 p.m. and the evening commute.
The high is expected to reach 86 degrees with southeast winds around 5 to 10 mph.
New rainfall totals could range from a half to three-quarters of an inch.
Tonight, storms are expected to taper off before 11 p.m., with skies gradually clearing overnight and a low temperature of around 75.
While it won’t be a washout, keeping an umbrella handy is a smart move for anyone headed out today. Stay safe and have a great Monday, New Jersey!