Coastal Storm to Bring Up to 8 Inches of Snow to N.J. Tuesday
UPDATE: A coastal storm is set to unleash the first significant snowfall of the season across much of New Jersey on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, with forecasts predicting accumulations between 2 to 8 inches in northwestern counties. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm watch for Sussex County from late Monday through Tuesday evening.
Officials warn that travel could be very difficult due to hazardous conditions, impacting both the Tuesday morning and evening commutes. The NWS anticipates snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour at times, especially in higher elevations. Sussex County is expected to receive between 4 to 8 inches of snow.
In addition, forecasters caution that slight shifts in the storm track could significantly alter snowfall amounts and the rain-snow line. The NWS confirmed their confidence in snowfall amounts remains relatively low at this time.
Precipitation is expected to spread across New Jersey from west to east early Tuesday morning. Areas southeast of Interstate 78, including parts of Warren, Hunterdon, and western Morris counties, may receive 2 to 5 inches of snow before transitioning to rain.
The forecast from AccuWeather aligns closely with the NWS outlook, indicating that the northwestern corner of the state could see 3 to 6 inches, surrounded by a band of 1 to 3 inches in adjacent regions. Meanwhile, the immediate I-95 corridor and coastal areas are likely to receive only rain, with totals reaching up to 1.5 inches.
The heaviest precipitation is forecasted for Tuesday afternoon, with the storm moving out by the evening. Wednesday will see high pressure returning, leading to clearing skies but continued cold temperatures approximately 10 degrees below normal.
As temperatures drop into the upper 20s to lower 30s Monday morning, residents can expect mostly clear skies in the lead-up to the storm. Monday will remain dry and cold, with highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s.
Residents are urged to prepare for challenging travel conditions and to stay informed with updates from the National Weather Service as the storm develops. Another potential storm system may impact New Jersey next weekend, but details regarding the track and precipitation type remain uncertain.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops. Prepare for a wintery Tuesday and prioritize safety during travel.
