By: Richard L. Smith
North Jersey residents are waking up to bitter cold conditions this morning, with freeze warnings in effect across Newark and surrounding areas. 
The mercury dipped to 34 degrees in downtown Newark, but brisk winds are making it feel more like the 20s.
According to the National Weather Service, wind gusts reached up to 27 mph early Thursday, adding an extra chill to the already cold start.
The wind is expected to ease as the day progresses, and sunshine will return—but don’t expect a significant warm-up. Today’s high will only reach around 51 degrees.
Early morning wind chill values are hovering between 25 and 35 degrees, so winter coats, scarves, and gloves are a must if you're heading out.
Tonight, clouds will begin to increase, and overnight lows will fall to around 37 degrees.
Residents are advised to bundle up and take precautions against the cold as we continue this chilly start to spring.