Arctic Blast Targets New Jersey With Dangerous Wind Chills and Brief Snow Threat

An Arctic cold front will deliver New Jersey its coldest weather of the year late Friday and into the weekend. Squalls, severe gusts, and dangerously low wind chill values could drop temperatures to negative 20 degrees in parts of the state.

As the Arctic front passes Friday night, weather will shift swiftly. Forecasters warn that stronger snow showers could develop snow squalls despite low snowfall. Heavy snow squalls can reduce visibility to less than a mile. Some areas may get one inch of snow from 40-mph winds. Even a little snow falling this fast can make roads treacherous at night.

Snow should leave the state by Saturday morning. The real concern is the sudden temperature drop. Arctic air will drop temperatures to teens and bring strong winds. In New Jersey, 40–50 mph wind gusts could reduce wind chill values to -10 degrees on Saturday.

Saturday night should be the coldest. Most of southern New Jersey will see -10 to -15 degree wind chills. Northern locations may receive minus 15–20 degree wind chills. Too much time outdoors in these temperatures can cause frostbite.

Though winds will be lighter on Sunday, the cold will persist. Highs will be in the teens and 20s statewide. Although quieter, midday wind chills can remain in the single digits, making it exceedingly cold.

New week, brighter outlook. Monday should bring warmer temps. Many parts of the state may reach above-freezing highs by Tuesday. A midweek warm-up should bring relief after many days of harsh winter weather.

Residents should be careful Friday night when snow squalls may occur quickly. Drivers should avoid icy roadways and sudden visibility drops. Weekend outdoor activity planners should dress for cold and limit exposure.

Sources

National Weather Service
AccuWeather