MOUNT HOLLY, NJ – Parts of southern New Jersey could see their first frost of the season early Friday morning, with a stronger weather system expected to bring damaging winds by Sunday.
The National Weather Service issued a Frost Advisory for the Pine Barrens region, warning that temperatures could dip as low as 34 degrees before sunrise.
Gardeners and homeowners in Ocean and southeastern Burlington counties were urged to protect sensitive plants as frost could form on exposed surfaces until about 9 a.m.
High winds to follow frost advisory
The weather service also placed the same areas under a High Wind Watch beginning Sunday morning and lasting through late Sunday night. Forecasters say northeast winds could reach sustained speeds between 30 and 40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph.
Officials warned that strong gusts could bring down trees and power lines, possibly causing outages and difficult driving conditions, especially for larger vehicles.
Residents advised to prepare for weekend weather
The advisory urged residents to secure loose outdoor items and to monitor updated forecasts as conditions develop. Those tending to gardens or outdoor vegetation were advised to cover plants or move them indoors before frost develops.
The brief cold snap marks the first significant sign of autumn in the Garden State as colder air settles in before Sunday’s wind event.