New Jersey is experiencing a brief reprieve from the deep freeze, with temperatures climbing above recent sub-zero wind chills, but meteorologists are now turning their focus to a potentially historic winter storm expected to strike this weekend. Officials are urging residents to prepare for heavy snow, biting cold, and hazardous travel conditions.
Today, Wednesday, January 21, much of the state will enjoy a mix of clouds and sun, with highs reaching a relatively mild 38°F, a welcome change after days of frigid air. Tonight, mostly cloudy skies will dominate, with isolated snow flurries possible in northern regions. No significant accumulation is expected, and temperatures will dip to around 34°F, offering only a brief break before a dramatic temperature swing later in the week.
Thursday, January 22, marks the warmest day of the short-term forecast, as highs climb into the mid-to-upper 40s, with South Jersey possibly flirting with the low 50s. While residents may enjoy the warmth, it will be a short-lived interlude. By Friday, January 23, colder Arctic air will return, sending daytime highs back to around 38°F before plummeting into the low teens overnight. This temperature shift sets the stage for the weekend’s major storm.
Forecasters are sounding the alarm for Saturday, January 24, through Sunday, January 25, as a significant snow system approaches. While exact totals remain uncertain due to potential variations in the storm’s track, confidence is high that New Jersey will be hit hard. Saturday will be bitterly cold, with daytime highs only around 20°F. Snow is expected to begin late at night, likely after 1:00 AM, ushering in a day of heavy accumulation on Sunday.
Current projections indicate widespread snowfall of 6 to 12 inches across the state, with Central Jersey seeing some of the highest totals, potentially reaching 10 to 12 inches. Compounding the hazard, temperatures will remain frigid, ranging from 10°F to 20°F, and wind gusts of 20–30 mph will create dangerously low wind chills. Travel during the peak of the storm may be severely restricted, and local authorities are already advising residents to make preparations for potential disruptions.
By Monday, January 26, snow may persist into the morning commute before gradually tapering off. Despite clearing skies, temperatures will remain cold, with highs struggling to reach 25°F. The Arctic air mass is expected to settle in firmly for the middle of the week, ensuring that much of the snow will remain intact and slow to melt. Tuesday, January 27, is forecast to be mostly sunny but bitterly cold, with a high of 24°F, while Wednesday, January 28, will see continued cold temperatures and a chance for additional light snow showers, keeping much of the state in winter’s grip.
Residents looking for ways to enjoy winter events despite the storm can explore local offerings in music, arts, and cultural activities throughout the state, with resources available to plan outings safely amid the forecasted snow. Preparing ahead for the coming storm—ensuring adequate food, water, and emergency supplies—remains crucial as New Jersey braces for what could be one of the most significant snow events of the season.
