By: Richard L. Smith
As the Newark and North Jersey region braces for an approaching precipitation spectacle coming from the west, it is set to bring a combination of rain and snow after a two-year hiatus of significant winter weather.
Early risers at 5 a.m. will feel the chill of the cold air, though the region will remain predominantly dry until around noon.
The National Weather Service forecasts a transition from rain to snow between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., with an expected high near 39 degrees.
Light winds in the morning will shift to an easterly direction, increasing to 5 to 10 mph. There's an 80% chance of precipitation, with less than one inch of snow accumulation anticipated during the day.
The Newark area will likely receive 1-3 inches of snow in total, with a greater emphasis on rain and frozen precipitation rather than a full blanket of snow.
As you get further up in Northern New Jersey, anticipate heavier snowfall and greater accumulations due to the presence of colder air.
Newark and the surrounding towns' residents should prepare for a slushy mix rather than a total whiteout.