By: Richard L. Smith
Newark and the North Jersey region are waking up to a frigid Tuesday morning as the season’s first significant winter weather event moves in. 
At 4:30 a.m., it is a cold 35 degrees in Downtown Newark, and an AccuWeather Alert remains in effect as conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly after 9 a.m.
Governor Phil Murphy has declared a State of Emergency ahead of the storm, which is expected to bring snow and sleet to areas north of I-287—including Sussex, Passaic, and Morris counties—while communities farther south, including Newark, will mainly experience heavy, cold rain throughout the day.
Good morning, NJ, and bundle up if you’re heading out early.
Winter weather gear is a must. Roads may become slick in northern counties, and travel is expected to be messy, slow, and hazardous through tonight.
For Newark, freezing temperatures are not expected, but rain will be steady and soaking as the storm system pushes through.
According to the National Weather Service:
Tuesday:
A slight chance of snow before 7 a.m., then rain. High near 41. Northeast wind 5 to 11 mph. Chance of precipitation: 100%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.
Tuesday Night:
Rain likely before 7 p.m. Cloudy early, then gradual clearing. Low around 29, with wind chill values between 20 and 25. Northwest wind around 11 mph, with gusts up to 22 mph. Chance of precipitation: 60%.
Be safe, drive carefully, and stay ready, NJ.