New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware Brace for Coldest Night of the Cold Wave, Lingering Chill Next Week, and Minor Coastal Flooding Risk
NEW JERSEY — The coldest temperatures of the ongoing cold wave are expected tonight into Saturday morning, according to updated guidance from the National Weather Service, with dangerous wind chills, lingering cold into next week, and a continued coastal flooding risk along the Mid-Atlantic shoreline. While the weekend snow forecast continues to trend lower, forecasters emphasize that cold impacts will persist well beyond the weekend.
In addition, widespread minor coastal flooding is forecast during the Sunday morning high tide, particularly along coastal New Jersey and Delaware.
Coldest Temperatures and Wind Chills Peak Tonight Into Saturday Morning
NWS data from Mount Holly indicates single-digit and sub-zero temperatures across much of northern and central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania, with lows falling to -3°F to -6°F in interior locations. Coastal and southern areas remain slightly warmer, though still well below freezing.
Wind chill values will make conditions feel significantly colder, with apparent temperatures dropping to -10°F to -15°F across inland portions of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Even near the coast, wind chills are expected to fall into the single digits or below zero, increasing the risk of frostbite with prolonged exposure.
Cold Persists Through Next Week Despite Gradual Moderation
Although temperatures will slowly rebound after the weekend, forecasters stress that cold conditions will persist through much of next week. Highs are expected to remain below seasonal normals, and some locations may continue to struggle to reach the freezing mark for several days.
This prolonged cold means limited snow and ice melt, keeping roadways icy during overnight and early morning hours, even as snowfall chances decrease.
Weekend Snowfall Continues to Trend Lower
The latest snowfall projections show lighter totals than earlier forecasts, with most of New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and northern Delaware expected to receive little to no accumulation.
The highest chances for measurable snow remain near the southern New Jersey and Delaware coastal zones, where 1 to 2 inches remain possible late Saturday into Sunday. Elsewhere, snowfall amounts are expected to stay below one inch, limiting widespread impacts.
Minor Coastal Flooding Likely During Sunday Morning High Tide
Despite reduced snowfall, coastal flooding remains a concern. NWS coastal flood guidance highlights a widespread minor flooding risk during the Sunday morning high tide, particularly along:
- The New Jersey Atlantic coast
- Delaware Bay communities
- Portions of the southern New Jersey back bays
Low-lying roads and coastal properties may experience brief inundation, especially in areas with poor drainage. While major flooding is not expected, officials urge coastal residents to remain alert during high tide cycles.
Key Impacts Residents Should Prepare For
Forecasters emphasize that impacts from this event are driven more by cold duration than snowfall, including:
- Dangerous wind chills overnight
- Prolonged freezing temperatures affecting pipes and infrastructure
- Icy conditions during morning commutes
- Coastal flooding in vulnerable shoreline areas
Residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure, protect pets and plumbing, and use caution near coastal flood-prone roads.
What Forecasters Are Watching Next
Meteorologists will continue monitoring:
- How quickly temperatures moderate next week
- Any reinforcing shots of cold air
- The extent of coastal flooding during upcoming tide cycles
While the worst of the cold peaks tonight, winter conditions are far from over across the Mid-Atlantic.
As New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware move through the coldest phase of this Arctic outbreak, caution remains essential. For continued updates on cold weather, snow chances, and coastal flooding risks, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.