By: Richard L. Smith
Newark and much of the North Jersey region is waking up to milder conditions this morning, a noticeable change from the colder weather of the past two days. 
While temperatures are climbing slightly, forecasters warn this may be the calm before a significant winter storm expected to impact the region this weekend, potentially bringing between seven inches and a foot of snow.
If you’re heading out early, winter gear is still recommended.
Despite the milder start, conditions remain cold, though the day is expected to stay dry.
Temperatures should rise enough to help melt some of the frozen snow left behind from the previous storm.
As of 4:30 a.m., it was 40 degrees in Newark, marking a sharp contrast from recent mornings.
Forecasters are closely monitoring a strong winter system expected to move into New Jersey late Sunday and continue into Monday.
The majority of snowfall is anticipated on Sunday, giving residents a couple of days to prepare.
According to the National Weather Service, today will be mostly sunny with a high near 42 degrees. West winds will range from 9 to 14 miles per hour, with gusts reaching up to 24 miles per hour.
Tonight, skies will be partly cloudy with temperatures dropping to around 25 degrees. Winds will remain light out of the west at 6 to 8 miles per hour.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of today’s calmer weather to prepare for the potential weekend snowfall and to continue monitoring updated forecasts as the storm approaches.