By: Richard L. Smith
Newark and the North Jersey region are waking up to sharply colder conditions this Saturday, setting the stage for what forecasters warn could be a significant winter storm arriving late Sunday and lingering into Monday.
Temperatures this morning dropped more than 10 degrees compared to Friday, with much of the region starting the day in the teens under frigid conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, today will remain cold and mostly dry, with highs struggling to reach the upper teens to near 20 degrees.
A light breeze will make it feel even colder, signaling that true winter air has settled in ahead of the storm.
A Major Weather Maker on the Way
Attention now turns to Sunday and Monday, when a powerful winter system is expected to move into New Jersey.
Forecasters say snow will begin developing Sunday morning and intensify through the afternoon and evening, potentially becoming heavy at times.
By Monday, lingering snow and icy conditions could continue to impact travel before the system gradually exits the region.
Current projections indicate widespread snowfall across North Jersey, with the potential for significant accumulations by the time the storm winds down.
With temperatures remaining well below freezing, snow is expected to stick on roadways, sidewalks, and untreated surfaces, creating hazardous conditions.
The American Red Cross has announced that disaster response teams are preparing across multiple states, including the Northeast, with supplies and plans in place to open warming centers and shelters if needed as the storm unfolds.
Residents are urged to prepare now.
Get all your warm-weather gear ready, pull out ice scrapers and shovels, and make sure snowblowers are fueled and working — they may be needed sooner rather than later.
Officials also recommend limiting travel during the height of the storm and checking on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance.
With bitter cold already in place and a high-impact storm looming, this system has the potential to be one of the more notable winter events of the season for Newark and the North Jersey region. 
Continued updates and advisories are expected as the forecast becomes clearer over the next 24 hours.