by Trenton, New Jersey – Strong winds continue to whip across the Garden State on Friday, with the National Weather Service (NWS) warning that gusts could reach up to 50 mph. Officials have issued weather alerts for all 21 counties, urging residents to take precautions as the blustery conditions linger through the afternoon.
Wind Advisory in Effect for Entire State
According to the National Weather Service, a wind advisory remains active until 4 p.m. Friday. Forecasters expect westerly winds of 15 to 25 mph, with stronger gusts occasionally hitting 35 to 45 mph. Some areas could even see peak gusts approaching 50 mph, powerful enough to cause scattered power outages, tree damage, and travel disruptions.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, garbage bins, and holiday decorations. Forecasters caution that loose objects may be tossed around, creating safety hazards for both pedestrians and drivers.
Power Outages Continue Across the State
The gusty conditions have already impacted thousands of New Jersey households. As of 7:30 a.m. Friday, more than 4,000 homes and businesses were without power, largely in Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) service areas. That number climbed to 5,270 outages by 9 a.m., underscoring the widespread impact of Thursday’s and Friday’s strong winds.
Utility crews are working across the state to restore electricity, but additional outages remain possible as winds persist into the afternoon.
Friday’s Forecast: Cold Morning, Warmer Afternoon
Temperatures across New Jersey started Friday in the 20s and 30s, but forecasters expect conditions to improve by mid-afternoon. Highs will rise into the upper 40s and low 50s, offering some relief despite the blustery weather.
The only chance for precipitation comes late Friday night into Saturday, when there is a 20% to 30% chance of rain or snow showers. However, the NWS notes that any accumulation would likely be minimal and of little consequence.
Saturday: Coldest Day of the Week
Residents should brace for a chilly start to the weekend. Saturday is forecast to be the coldest day of the next seven, with highs only reaching the 40s.
It will remain breezy, with gusts near 35 mph, but skies are expected to stay mostly sunny. Overnight lows could drop into the 20s, especially in northern counties, making for a frosty morning on Sunday.
Warming Trend Beginning Sunday
After Saturday’s cold spell, New Jersey will experience a noticeable warming trend. Sunday brings plenty of sunshine and highs climbing into the low 50s, setting the stage for a spring-like stretch of weather.
By Monday, highs could flirt with 60 degrees, a welcome change from the icy mornings earlier this week.
Spring Preview: 60s and Possible 70s Next Week
Looking ahead, forecasters are optimistic about a significant warm-up. On Tuesday, temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-60s, and by Wednesday, many areas could see highs in the upper 60s. Some inland locations may even hit 70 degrees, well above the seasonal average of upper 40s.
“Starting Sunday, winds will diminish further and we’re in for a warmup through at least the middle part of next week,” the NWS said in its morning update.
Along the Jersey Shore, temperatures will be slightly cooler, topping out in the 50s, but conditions should remain sunny and pleasant.
A Look Ahead
With the first official day of spring arriving March 20, New Jersey residents are getting an early taste of milder weather. After battling gusty winds, power outages, and a cold Saturday, the outlook turns brighter heading into next week.
The transition to warmer days should provide relief for residents eager to shed their winter coats, though forecasters continue to caution that March weather can be unpredictable, with sudden cold snaps still possible.
What’s your take on this week’s wild New Jersey weather? Have you experienced outages or damage from the high winds? Share your thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
