Trenton, New Jersey – Spring break travelers moving through New Jersey could face a sharp return to winter-like cold as overnight temperatures drop near 27°F between March 16 and March 20, bringing freezing conditions to parts of the state just days before the official start of spring.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a broad portion of the eastern United States—from Minnesota down to East Texas and eastward to the Atlantic coast—shows a 60–70% probability of below-normal temperatures during that period. The Mid-Atlantic region, including New Jersey, sits within this colder-than-average zone.
Cities including Newark, Trenton, and Camden could see overnight temperatures falling close to 27°F, particularly during clear nights when heat escapes quickly after sunset.
Daytime highs may recover into the upper 30s and 40s, but those readings will still run several degrees below normal for mid-March.
Drivers using major travel routes such as the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), Garden State Parkway, and Interstate 78 during spring break should watch for patchy frost on bridges and elevated roadways during early morning hours.
Along the coast, Atlantic City and Cape May may remain slightly milder due to the ocean influence, but brisk winds could make temperatures feel colder during early morning and evening hours.
The colder pattern may persist through March 20, and additional advisories could follow if overnight temperatures continue dipping into the mid-20s across New Jersey during the first official week of spring.
