By: Richard L. Smith
A powerful overnight rainstorm swept through the region, leaving behind localized flooding and scattered debris that could slow down parts of the Tuesday morning commute across Newark and North Jersey.
Residents are waking up to a brisk and blustery start to St. Patrick’s Day, with temperatures hovering around 40 degrees in downtown Newark.
Gusty winds, reaching up to 35 miles per hour, are making it feel significantly colder, even as skies begin to clear.
While the heavy rain has moved out, lingering impacts remain. Downed tree limbs and water-covered roadways in some areas may create travel delays during the morning rush.
Despite the sunshine expected to develop through the day, it will stay cold and breezy.
Forecasters say highs will only reach the low 40s, with wind chills making it feel more like the mid-to-upper 20s at times.
According to the National Weather Service, there is a slight chance of flurries developing after 5 p.m., with mostly sunny skies otherwise.
Winds will continue out of the west at 18 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.
Tonight, conditions turn even colder, with a chance of early flurries before 11 p.m.
Skies will become partly cloudy, and temperatures will drop to around 24 degrees. Wind chills are expected to fall into the teens.
If you’re heading out to celebrate the holiday or commute to work, bundle up, winter gear is still a must as March continues to deliver a mix of seasons.
Have a great and safe day, New Jersey.