Newark, NJ – After a stretch of mild autumn days, New Jersey’s weather is about to take a sharp turn toward winter. Forecasters are warning that a major pattern shift between November 9 and 15 will bring colder temperatures, increased rainfall, and even a risk of snow in parts of the state’s northern and western regions.
The Shift: From Autumn Comfort to Early Winter Chill
According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, the first half of November will feature a cooler and wetter setup across the Northeast, including New Jersey. Temperatures are expected to trend near or slightly below normal, ending the mild streak that defined early November.
Forecasters expect a series of fast-moving storm systems to track through the Mid-Atlantic, bringing rounds of cold rain, gusty winds, and potential wet snow across higher elevations northwest of Interstate 287.
“This will be the first true taste of winter weather for parts of the Garden State,” meteorologists said in a regional outlook.
Weather Pattern and Regional Forecast
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Mount Holly predicts that a cold front will push across New Jersey early next week, followed by a notable drop in temperatures.
- High temperatures: mid to upper 40s and low 50s statewide.
- Low temperatures: near freezing in the northwestern hills and mid-30s elsewhere.
- Coastal areas: likely to stay a bit milder but could face brisk winds and coastal showers toward the end of the period.
The pattern will also bring enhanced precipitation chances, particularly in central and northern counties. The combination of cold air and moisture could produce a rain-and-snow mix in elevated areas like Sussex, Warren, and Morris counties by midweek.
Travel and Safety Advisories
Travelers along I-80, I-78, and the Garden State Parkway should prepare for variable weather conditions and slower commutes during morning and evening hours.
Meteorologists are advising residents to take early precautions as the cold snap sets in:
- Seal windows and doors to reduce drafts.
- Check and service heating systems before the Thanksgiving travel rush.
- Protect outdoor plumbing and irrigation lines from overnight freezing.
- Secure patio furniture and outdoor décor ahead of expected gusty winds.
“With overnight lows dropping to near freezing in the northwest, this could be the first real reminder that winter isn’t far away,” said an NWS spokesperson.
Background and Long-Range Outlook
The shift follows an unusually warm start to November, with temperatures 5 to 10 degrees above average across much of New Jersey. However, as upper-level jet stream patterns realign, colder Canadian air will spill southward, ushering in a more wintry setup for the Northeast.
Climatologists say this pattern could serve as a preview of the coming winter, with increased chances for snow events in late November and early December if the trend persists.
The NOAA’s long-range forecast indicates that while temperatures will remain variable, precipitation may stay slightly above average, keeping the region active and storm-prone through the month.
What to Expect Next
By mid-November, New Jersey residents should expect daytime highs in the 40s and a steady presence of cold rain and occasional snowflakes, particularly north and west of the I-287 corridor. The state’s first measurable snow could follow later in the month if current models hold.
Meteorologists caution that fast-changing systems will keep forecasting challenging, but residents should anticipate colder commutes and a more wintry feel as Thanksgiving approaches.
What are your thoughts on New Jersey’s early arrival of winter weather? Share your experiences and preparations in the comments below.
