By: Richard L. Smith
Newark and North Jersey residents woke up to a chilly morning, with temperatures hovering a few degrees above freezing.
At 4:40 a.m., the mercury registered at 36 degrees, prompting us 'early risers' to reach for our winter coats.
Despite the cold start, meteorologists at the National Weather Service said the day ahead promises mostly sunny skies, with temperatures expected to reach a high near 48 degrees.
A gentle north wind of around six mph will offer some relief from the chill.
As night falls, clear conditions will persist, causing temperatures to drop to around 31 degrees. The north wind will continue to blow at 3 to 5 mph, maintaining a crisp evening.
While the sun will make outdoor activities more inviting, residents are advised to keep their heavy jackets handy, especially after sundown when temperatures are expected to dip below freezing in certain areas.
This cold snap marks the start of the workweek for many in the region.