TRENTON, N.J. – Bitter cold settled over New Jersey Sunday night after a winter storm left much of the state coated in 4 to 8 inches of snow.
The storm, which moved through during the day Sunday, brought the first widespread snowfall of the season to the Garden State.
Road crews worked through the night clearing highways and side streets as temperatures plunged into the teens under partly cloudy skies.
By Monday morning, frigid air will remain locked over the region, with daytime highs expected to reach only the upper 20s.
Subzero wind chills and slick roads
Northwest winds between 10 and 15 mph are expected to produce wind chills near zero early Monday, creating hazardous conditions for morning commuters and pedestrians. The National Weather Service advised residents to limit time outdoors and to dress in layers to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
A slight chance of snow showers could return Monday afternoon as clouds increase, though any accumulation is expected to be minimal. By Monday night, skies will clear gradually, allowing temperatures to fall again into the upper teens.
Gradual warmup by midweek
Tuesday will bring some relief under mostly sunny skies, with highs near 32 and light winds. The warming trend continues through the week, with temperatures climbing into the mid-40s Wednesday and possibly into the low 50s by Thursday.
However, forecasters say rain is likely Thursday night into Friday, with a cold front expected to drop temperatures back into the 20s by Friday night.
Winter’s first test for residents
Sunday’s storm marked a quick transition into winter weather for New Jersey, following an unseasonably mild start to December. Public works departments across the state reported no major issues, though state police urged drivers to remain cautious on untreated roads and bridges that could refreeze overnight.
The week ahead will test how well New Jersey residents can adjust from snow shovels to umbrellas as the state shifts from a deep freeze to a thaw in just a few days.
Cold settles in after New Jersey snowstorm leaves up to eight inches statewide.
