By: Richard L. Smith
Good morning, Jersey.
We’re starting this Tuesday on an AccuWeather alert as we are expecting freezing rain and snow in Newark and communities across North Jersey. 
If you’re heading out the door — especially to the bus stop — bundle up and grab that umbrella.
It’s 32 degrees in downtown Newark this morning, and we’re expecting frozen precipitation to begin shortly after daybreak, around 7 a.m.
That initial mix of light snow and rain is forecast to transition to plain rain by late morning, with the messy conditions lingering through about noon.
In the immediate Newark area, a rain-snow mix could create slick spots on untreated surfaces, so give yourself extra travel time and take it slow on the roads and sidewalks.
According to the National Weather Service, rain and snow will become all rain after noon, with a high near 39 degrees.
Northeast winds between 3 to 6 mph are expected, and the chance of precipitation stands at 100 percent. Any snow accumulation should be less than a half inch.
By Tuesday night, rain is expected mainly before 1 a.m., with temperatures holding steady around 39 degrees.
Winds will shift from calm to southwest around 6 mph in the evening. Forecasters say rainfall totals could range between a quarter and a half inch.
Yes, it’s going to be wet, cold, and a little messy for the morning commute.
Be safe out there — and have a great day, Jersey.