Trenton, New Jersey –A push of Arctic air is expected to move into New Jersey between Jan. 18 and Jan. 22, bringing a strong likelihood of colder-than-normal temperatures as a clipper system reinforces a broader pattern shift across the eastern United States.
According to the Climate Prediction Center’s 6–10 day temperature outlook, New Jersey is expected to fall within a zone of likely below-normal temperatures, reflecting a significant departure from seasonal averages. The colder regime follows the end of a recent mild stretch, as ridging across the western U.S. and Alaska allows a deep trough of cold air to settle over the eastern half of the country.
Daytime high temperatures are forecast to run several degrees below mid-January normals, while overnight lows drop sharply across inland and northern portions of the state. Coastal areas may remain slightly milder at times, but increasing winds behind the passing clipper system could still lead to noticeably colder wind chills, particularly overnight and during the early morning hours.
At this time, snow and precipitation chances remain near normal for this time of year. Forecast guidance does not show a strong signal for widespread snowfall during the Jan. 18–22 window, as the incoming Arctic air mass is expected to be relatively dry. Any precipitation that does occur would likely be light and brief, associated with fast-moving systems.
For New Jersey commuters, students, and outdoor workers, the primary impacts through this period will be prolonged cold exposure and increased heating demand, rather than travel disruptions from snow. Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates as temperature details and wind impacts become clearer closer to the event.
