New Jersey residents are being warned to prepare for a significant change in the weather as a developing storm system heads toward the region, bringing periods of rain, gusty winds and much colder temperatures later this week.

After several relatively mild November days, the Garden State is expected to experience a sharp transition as the storm moves through Thursday and Friday. Temperatures will take a noticeable tumble heading into the weekend, with some areas potentially seeing their first snowflakes of the season.

Meanwhile, frost advisories have been issued for four New Jersey counties as colder overnight temperatures create conditions for frost formation.

Frost Advisories Issued for 4 New Jersey Counties

The National Weather Service has issued a Frost Advisory for portions of southern New Jersey.

The advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. until 9 a.m. Wednesday, November 11, for the following counties:

• Camden County
• Cumberland County
• Gloucester County
• Salem County

Temperatures could fall as low as 35 degrees, creating conditions for frost that could damage sensitive outdoor plants and vegetation.

Ocean County is not included in this particular Frost Advisory.

Storm System Expected to Bring Rain Thursday and Friday

The next weather system is expected to arrive Thursday, bringing rain to much of New Jersey.

Forecasters are monitoring the storm’s track and intensity, which will determine how much rainfall different parts of the state receive.

Some areas could experience periods of heavier rain, while gusty winds and possible coastal impacts will also need to be monitored.

There is also a possibility of isolated thunderstorms, particularly Thursday night into Friday morning.

Coastal communities along the Jersey Shore will want to keep an eye on changing forecasts as stronger onshore winds and minor tidal flooding remain possible depending on the storm’s track. National Weather Service+2

Could New Jersey See Its First Snowflakes?

With colder air expected to move into the region behind the storm, some residents may be wondering whether snow is in the forecast.

According to forecasters, a rain-and-snow mix or a few snowflakes cannot be ruled out across higher elevations of northwestern New Jersey.

However, widespread accumulating snowfall is not currently expected, and most of the state should see primarily rain from this system. National Weather Service+1

Much Colder Temperatures Expected This Weekend

The biggest change may come after the storm moves away.

A much colder air mass is expected to settle across New Jersey beginning Friday, bringing temperatures well below what residents have experienced earlier in the week.

Here’s what residents should prepare for:

• Thursday: Increasing chances of rain with cooler temperatures.
• Friday: Lingering showers, gusty winds and highs generally in the 40s.
• Saturday: Cold and breezy, with temperatures remaining in the 40s for many locations.
• Sunday: Continued chilly conditions, with some gradual improvement.

Overnight temperatures could drop into the 20s and low 30s in some areas, making it feel more like December than November. Wind gusts could reach approximately 35 mph Saturday. National Weather Service+1

What This Means for Ocean County and the Jersey Shore

For residents in Toms River, Brick, Lacey, Berkeley Township and surrounding Ocean County communities, the changing forecast is worth watching.

The arrival of rain, stronger winds and colder temperatures could impact outdoor activities and weekend plans.

Residents along the coast should also monitor updates regarding possible tidal flooding and changing wind conditions.

Anyone with outdoor plants should consider protecting sensitive vegetation as temperatures fall.

One thing is becoming increasingly clear: New Jersey is heading toward a much colder stretch of November weather.

Forecasters will continue monitoring the storm as its track becomes clearer over the coming days.

For the latest weather updates, advisories and breaking weather news, keep checking TomsRiver.org.