Newark, NJ – New Jersey is preparing for an active and potentially hazardous stretch of weather from December 18–24, with NOAA’s 8–14 day outlook showing above-normal precipitation and temperatures ranging from near-normal in the north to above-normal across southern counties. This combination raises the likelihood of freezing rain, sleet, rain–snow mixes, and occasional snow, especially during holiday travel periods leading into Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, northern New Jersey—including Newark, Paterson, Morristown, and areas along I-80—sits closest to the near-normal temperature zone, where surface readings may hover around freezing during early phases of storms. This setup strongly supports icy mix potential, including freezing drizzle or brief glaze conditions from December 19–21.
Further south—Trenton, Cherry Hill, Vineland, and the entire I-295 corridor—temperatures lean above normal at times. These areas are more likely to see mainly rain, though cold air dipping southward by December 22–24 could cause final rounds of precipitation to end as wet snow heading into Christmas Eve.
The northwest corner of the state, including Sussex and Warren Counties, is at greatest risk for accumulating snow due to slightly colder temperature trends and elevation influence.
Major travel routes—including I-95, the Garden State Parkway, I-78, I-280, and U.S. 1—may experience slick roads, reduced visibility, and delays, especially during the busiest travel windows December 21–24.
Holiday travelers should remain alert as multiple storm systems appear likely to impact the region through Christmas Eve.
