Dangerous Cold Envelops NJ, Temperatures Below Zero Expected in Parts of State

Dangerous Cold Envelops NJ, Temperatures Below Zero Expected in Parts of State

Staff

NJ is in he midst of its coldest stretch in years as an arctic air mass brings dangerously low temperatures across the state. Meteorologists predict some relief by the weekend, but conditions will remain well below average for January, with areas of the state expected to even dip below zero.

The National Weather Service forecasts highs in northern New Jersey to stay below freezing until Saturday, when temperatures may reach 31 degrees. Tuesday began near zero in many areas, with highs only climbing to the upper teens. Wind chills have plunged to as low as -4 degrees, making outdoor activity hazardous despite clear skies.

“Tuesday night into Wednesday morning will be the coldest of the week,” said Mike Lee, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Temperatures are expected to dip to -5 degrees in some parts of the state.

Wednesday will bring slightly higher daytime highs in the 20s, though wind chills will remain a factor. Thursday is expected to see a modest improvement with temperatures approaching the upper 20s. By Friday, portions of New Jersey may climb just above freezing, but the respite will be brief.

Gov. Phil Murphy urged residents to take precautions, emphasizing the availability of county warming centers. A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect through at least Wednesday afternoon. Officials advise wearing layers, limiting outdoor exposure, and checking on vulnerable individuals.

The current cold snap is notable, but far from the worst in the state’s history. In January 1904, a snowstorm and record-breaking temperatures as low as -32 degrees wreaked havoc, bursting pipes and disrupting daily life.

Elsewhere, the arctic air mass has affected areas across the eastern United States, with winter storm warnings stretching from Texas to Florida. Louisiana is bracing for up to six inches of snow, a rare event for the region.

The Garden State may see a slight thaw by the weekend, with highs in the mid-30s Saturday and possibly reaching 40 degrees in southern New Jersey on Sunday. However, forecasters caution that more significant snow may be on the horizon early next week.

For now, residents are advised to remain vigilant as the extreme cold persists.

The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.