By: Richard L. Smith
Newark and the North Jersey region residents are waking up to much colder conditions this Friday morning, as powerful winds are set to dominate the day. 
The drop in temperature, combined with gusts of 40 to 50 mph, will make for a brisk and blustery end to the workweek.
While plenty of sunshine is expected throughout the day, the strong winds will keep temperatures from feeling much warmer.
According to the National Weather Service, Friday’s high will reach around 50 degrees, but wind chill values early in the morning will make it feel like the low 20s.
Winds from the west will remain strong, ranging from 17 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph.
By Friday night, a chance of rain and snow showers are expected before 1 a.m., followed by a slight chance of snow showers between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m.
The wind will persist but gradually ease as the night progresses.
Bundle up and stay prepared for the strong gusts throughout the day.