By: Richard L. Smith
My friends and family in Newark and the North Jersey region are waking up to bitterly cold temperatures this Saturday morning, with a winter storm looming in the forecast.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter weather warning for the entire northern part of the state, urging residents to prepare for accumulating snow and hazardous travel conditions.
As of 5:30 a.m., temperatures are well below freezing across the region. Newark sits at 27 degrees, while Sussex County has dropped to a frigid 11 degrees.
Other early morning temperatures include 19 degrees in Morristown, 24 in Haledon, 22 in Edison, and 20 in New Brunswick.
The cold, combined with a moisture-rich system approaching from the west, sets the stage for an impending winter storm expected to bring snow and freezing rain later today.
According to the National Weather Service, snow is expected to begin after 4 p.m., with daytime highs reaching only 36 degrees. Wind chill values will make it feel much colder, ranging between 20 and 30 degrees.
A light southeast wind will develop in the afternoon as the storm system moves in.
By tonight, the snowfall will intensify, mixing with sleet and freezing rain after 1 a.m. Forecasters warn that the snow could be heavy at times, making travel dangerous overnight and into Sunday morning.
Temperatures will remain steady around 32 degrees, with wind chill values staying between 25 and 30 degrees.
The storm is expected to drop 3 to 5 inches of snow in Newark and parts of North Jersey, with additional ice accumulation making roads treacherous. Freezing rain could create slick conditions on sidewalks, bridges, and highways, leading to potential travel disruptions into Sunday.
Authorities advise drivers to exercise caution, limit non-essential travel, and stay updated on weather advisories as the storm progresses. 
Residents should also prepare for potential power outages due to the icy conditions.
Stay tuned for further updates as the winter storm moves through the region.